The Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services (PIPS) launched a comprehensive long course for specialized parliamentary groups of the Senate Secretariat on January 6, 2025, at its Islamabad campus. The program is designed to enhance participants’ expertise in policy analysis, legislative processes, and essential parliamentary skills.
The course includes seven modules, covering topics such as the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973, the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Senate, 2012, and the Rules of Business, 1973. Participants will also receive training in presentation skills, legislative drafting, AI tools with an emphasis on digital safety and ethics, team building, time management, language proficiency, and noting and drafting techniques. These modules aim to equip officers with the tools necessary to excel in their roles.
The opening session began with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Qari Anees ur Rehman. Ms. Maryam Ahsan moderated the event, introducing Ms. Samer Awais, Director General of the Parliamentary Development Program, who delivered the welcome remarks. Ms. Awais outlined the program agenda and emphasized the inclusion of AI tools and their ethical consideration in today’s digital landscape.
The facilitator, Syed Hussain Haider, was introduced as an expert with international experience in policy analysis. His session covered Pakistan’s socio-economic challenges, including its ranking of 145th out of 146 countries on the Gender Gap Index and 4th in violent extremism. He provided practical insights into policy analysis using models such as:
Participants engaged in an interactive group activity, applying these models to real-world policies for hands-on learning followed by group presentations.
The day concluded with a formal vote of thanks. Upcoming sessions will focus on honing presentation skills, noting and drafting techniques, and the application of AI tools, ensuring a robust and dynamic training experience.