Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has stated that a system is being created in Sindh where young people will not have to leave the province for success.
Addressing a ceremony titled “Course Correction: Defining a New Direction” at a local hotel, CM Murad Ali Shah said that Karachi is the heartbeat of Pakistan’s economy, creation, and resilience. “The world is changing rapidly; artificial intelligence and climate change are altering the global map. The question is whether Sindh will react or define a new direction?” he asked.
He emphasized that the era of reaction is over, and it is now the age of anticipatory governance. “Course correction is not a failure but a sign of courage, maturity, and accountability.” Sindh is burdened by a rising urban population, income inequality, and climatic challenges. Sindh is the second-largest economic hub of Pakistan, contributing over 30% to the national GDP.
Murad Ali Shah highlighted that Karachi alone accounts for approximately 50% of the country’s total exports. The current budget allocated PKR 959 billion for development projects, and the proposed budget for the next year is PKR 3.45 trillion, with a record PKR 523.7 billion designated for education.
He said that potential is not destiny; the direction must be corrected through strategy. Sindh’s development is based on four pillars: Governance, Development, Opportunities, and Partnership. Governance must be data-driven, transparent, and public-centric. “Through e-governance, we are reducing bureaucracy and facilitating services.” Development should be measured not just by GDP but should be comprehensive and sustainable.
Speaking further at the event, Murad Ali Shah stated that human capital, sustainable urbanism, and climate resilience are their priorities. “The 2022 floods proved that development without sustainability is an illusion.” Sindh is moving towards a green and digital economy. Sindh’s biggest asset is its youth, with 60% of the population under the age of 30. Youth are not just job seekers but job creators. “We are promoting vocational and digital training.”
He reiterated that the government is building a system in Sindh where no young person has to leave the province for success. “Government, the private sector, academia, and the public must move forward together.” The future will be shaped by partnership, trust, and shared accountability. Leadership requires humility, courage, and empathy. “Prioritizing reforms over applause is true leadership. We must set new paths for our coming generations.”
Focus on Industrial Modernization and Investment
Earlier, addressing the Future Summit, CM Murad Ali Shah said that the development of the industrial and logistics sectors in Sindh on modern lines is underway. However, approval from the Federal Government for the establishment of IT Parks and Technology Zones is still pending. He attributed the lack of federal approval to IMF conditions. The Sindh government is investing in energy transition, urban development, and human resources.
He noted that reforms are being introduced to facilitate businesses and enhance transparency. The focus is on promoting education, digital literacy, and skill development. Sindh has established a partnership with the Asian Development Bank’s Skills Forum. The Future Summit brings together policy, capital, and creativity.
Murad Ali Shah said that the National Bank and the private sector are playing a crucial role in promoting innovation. Sindh is an attractive investment destination for investors. The Sindh government will enhance partnership with investors, startups, and institutions. Sindh has Pakistan’s best Public-Private Partnership framework. He urged all investors to benefit from the opportunities available in Sindh.
