NSPP conducts directors’ training programme for SOEs to strengthen governance

LAHORE, Apr 23 — The Executive Development Institute (EDI) of the National School of Public Policy conducted a three-day Directors’ Training Programme (DTP) for State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), aimed at improving corporate governance and leadership capacity in Pakistan’s public sector organizations.

The programme, approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, brought together 17 participants from federal and provincial governments as well as private sector organizations, reflecting a cross-sector approach to governance and management practices.

Programme focus and participation

Participants included representatives from institutions such as the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission, PASSCO, Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company, Pakistan Industrial Development Corporation, GHQ Rawalpindi, POF Wah Cantt, Bank of Punjab, and private sector firms.

The training covered key areas including corporate governance principles, board structure, legal responsibilities, financial risk management, and performance oversight, with a focus on improving decision-making and accountability in SOEs.

Leadership and training objectives

Rector NSPP Farhan Aziz Khawja said the programme aims to enhance transparency and accountability in public sector organizations while strengthening collaboration between government and private sector professionals.

Dr. Naveed Elahi outlined that the curriculum is designed to improve governance and performance of SOEs through practical learning, including case studies and simulations. The programme also emphasised ethical leadership and strategic thinking.

Expert engagement and key topics

The training featured sessions from senior experts, including Dr. Ishrat Hussain and Tariq Bajwa, among others from academia, government, and industry.

Topics included SOE reforms, board effectiveness, financial governance, cybersecurity risks, public service obligations, and audit and compliance mechanisms.

Programme conclusion

The three-day programme concluded with certificate distribution to participants. NSPP officials said such training initiatives are part of broader efforts to improve governance standards and institutional performance across state-owned enterprises in Pakistan.