Introduction
The CSS exam stands for Central Superior Services Examination which is considered Pakistan’s most distinguished and competitive exam. The Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) is responsible for conducting these exams every year. The main aim of the exam is to recruit the most brilliant, talented, and intelligent citizens from all across Pakistan in 12 different federal government departments.
CSS is a permanent bureaucratic elite organization in Pakistan. It primarily manages civil bureaucratic operations, cabinet offices, and government secretaries. Its officers are known as bureaucrats. Those who clear the exams are hired at BS-17 posts as designated government officers. The number of candidates who want to compete in CSS exams has significantly increased over time. The age limit for CSS exams is 21 to 30 years of age.
These exams are tough, which is why only a few candidates score high. One must work hard to pass and earn a job in the public sector. Additionally, as CSS provides multiple career opportunities to the candidates, most applicants decide to apply for the exam after their graduation.
Evolution of CSS Exams in Pakistan
CSS exams have been the bedrock of the nation’s administrative structure for over seven decades. During the British colonial era, the story of CSS started with the establishment of Indian Civil Services (ICS) exams. These were introduced to select brilliant administrators who would govern British India. As Pakistan gained independence in 1947, it laid the foundation of its own exams to select civil servants based on the same administrative framework.
The first civil service examination in Pakistan was conducted in 1948. It was based on the British model with a few changes. Initially, the ICS subjects and structure were set as the eligibility criteria to select candidates for Pakistani administrative services. The test was based on English, law, and history subjects.
Eventually, the scope of Pakistan’s civil exams grew along with the state’s administrative requirements, encompassing a wide range of occupational categories, including customs and tariffs, police, foreign services, and others.
Changes are consistently made to improve the process of the examinations. As time passed, subjects of Islamic Studies, Pakistan Studies, and other regional languages were made part of the syllabus. The aim was to provide the candidates with a comprehensive understanding of the socio-political landscape of the country.
Why is the Pakistani Youth Obsessed with the Civil Services Examination?
Nowadays, everyone wants to apply for the CSS exam. Why is it so?
As a developing country, Pakistan faces huge economic challenges. Due to these, it has been unable to provide more job opportunities to its youth. Even if they get a job, most receive low salaries ranging from Rs 20k to Rs 30k for standard 9 to 5. It’s becoming difficult for people to survive in Pakistan due to the economic crisis, poverty, and inflation. Therefore, people are searching for careers with good salary packages, perks, and privileges.
In such a situation, the role of a civil servant is a symbol of aspiration in the realm of economic uncertainty. Therefore, Pakistani youth view the central superior service exam as a path toward a more settled, prestigious, and happier life. Thus, it is unsurprising that applicants eagerly dream of a day when they pass the exam, viewing it as a gateway to their brighter future.
Cultural and Societal Factors Fueling the Obsession
Apart from economic stability, cultural and societal factors are also crucial in fueling the youth’s obsession with CSS. Most people want to become a CSS officer because holding a position within the civil services of Pakistan is considered prestigious and highly respected. Some are inspired by their family members already part of the bureaucracy. While others want to serve their country by contributing to its governance and development.
Let’s explain these factors in detail:
- Prestige and Status
Emile Durkheim was a French sociologist. He introduced a concept known as “social facts.” These are dominant cultural and social expectations. Such expectations then exert pressure on individuals and mold their behaviors. In today’s world, society respects a rich person with high social status and a luxurious life. It’s a dominant perception in our society that a government job makes us capable of earning more respect and honor. This perception, coupled with family expectations, causes a lot of people to go down the civil bureaucratic path.
In Pakistan, a CSP officer enjoys a range of perks and privileges. These may include high salaries, official residencies, international travel, housing, opportunities to advance their careers, etcetera. Therefore, as it opens doors for admiration and respect in society, most people prefer to apply for CSS at least once.
- Economic Stability and Security
In Pakistan, the government fully covers the expenses of a CSP officer. Their petrol costs, utility bills, food, etc. It would not be wrong to say that the officers could save much of their monthly salary and utilize it for personal needs. In this way, a CSP officer could save more money than their private sector counterparts.
- Power and Influence
Furthermore, CSS officers play a crucial role in decision-making in various government agencies and departments. They are given access to important information and resources to formulate policies and programs that may significantly influence our society. They also play a pivotal role in designing projects, drafting legislation, and advising policymakers on important national matters. Many CSS officers genuinely want to positively impact society through their services. They play a role in serving public interests, addressing socio-economic challenges, and fostering development and welfare. This power and influence motivate and aid them in their commitment to serving the Government of Pakistan.
- Connections and Network
Other than the above, as a CSS officer, one gets a chance to interact with professionals and experts in various fields. This enhances their knowledge and helps them in both personal and professional growth whilst creating numerous opportunities to interact with influential individuals. It ultimately helps in setting up mutually beneficial partnerships and collaborations.
Conclusion
CSS attracts Pakistani youth as holding the post of a CSP officer opens doors for admiration and respect in society. Though it is understandable to struggle for personal growth and development, the larger goal of taking on such positions should be kept in mind; fundamental principles of responsibility, commitment to public service, and honesty must always be maintained. It is important to remind the Pakistani youth that their main responsibility is to fulfill their pledge to the state rather than only benefiting themselves.
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