By Shaheen Hashim
KARACHI: Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Science and Technology, Dr Nikhat Shakeel, visited the Pakistan Standards & Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) Karachi to review the institution’s performance, ongoing projects, and future strategic plans.
During the visit, the Deputy Director General briefed Dr Shakeel on PSQCA’s role in national standardization, quality control, certification, and enforcement against substandard and counterfeit products. He highlighted improvements in laboratory facilities and steps taken to align national standards with international requirements.
Dr Shakeel praised PSQCA’s work, saying that ensuring safe and high-quality products is vital for public health, consumer protection, and economic stability. She added that effective standards enforcement not only restores public confidence but also supports export growth.
The parliamentary secretary stressed the importance of transparency, enhanced efficiency, and strict enforcement of the law. She assured staff that the government would provide all possible support to strengthen PSQCA’s capacity and effectiveness.
Senior PSQCA officials discussed challenges facing the authority and outlined proposals for its future roadmap. Dr Shakeel also addressed employee complaints, particularly concerning non-compliance with court orders and the presence of irregularly appointed staff. She said the Federal Minister and Secretary of Science and Technology had been informed for immediate action.
She expressed concern over officials, including Khalid Balani Soomro and Ali Bakhsh Soomro, who had allegedly failed to comply with judicial directives, and emphasized the need for prompt implementation of court decisions. PSQCA staff reaffirmed their commitment to promoting quality products and protecting consumers, pledging strict adherence to legal and regulatory standards.
