LAHORE: A Christmas ceremony was organised at the Civil Services Academy (CSA) here to promote interfaith harmony, mutual respect, religious tolerance and national unity in line with Pakistan’s constitutional and social values. Officers, faculty members, academy staff and probationers from different faiths attended the event, reflecting the inclusive and harmonious environment of the Academy.
Director General of the Pakistan Civil Services Academy, Farhan Aziz Khawaja was the chief guest and addressed the participants. He emphasised that Christmas is not only a religious festival but also conveys a universal message of humanity, love, sacrifice, and brotherhood—values shared by all religions. He appreciated the contributions of the Christian community, noting that it is an equal partner in Pakistan’s development and progress. He found it encouraging that both Muslim and Christian staff members actively participated in the celebrations, describing it as a practical example of mutual respect within the institution.
Farhan Aziz Khawaja also announced that the Civil Services Academy would provide guidance and facilitation to the children of both Muslim and Christian staff members who wish to appear in the CSS examination, ensuring that capable youth receive equal opportunities to join national service. Paying tribute to the teachings of Hazrat Isa (Peace Be Upon Him), he highlighted the values of love, peace, and service to humanity, noting that these principles are common to all religions and form the foundation of a peaceful society.
Speaking on the occasion, Director of Administration and Finance Muhammad Bilal Akram stated that the CSA is not only a training institution but also plays a positive role in social transformation. He said that recruitment of permanent, daily-wage, and outsourced staff is carried out strictly on merit, with Christian staff members posted in different wings according to their qualifications.
Mr Akram emphasised that the Academy could not achieve its objectives, including the Sustainable Development Goals, without the contribution of Christian staff. He described the Christmas ceremony as a true reflection of interfaith harmony and national solidarity. During the ceremony, Christmas gifts were distributed followed by a cake-cutting ceremony attended by the Director General, faculty members, staff, and probationers in an atmosphere of respect and warmth.
