KARACHI: President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday approved the development and modernisation of Cadet College Petaro (CCP) and directed Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah to announce a special salary package for the college’s teaching staff.

“The president approved an upgrade to the infrastructure of Cadet College Petaro and directed the CM to implement these upgrades within the next four years,” said a statement issued on Monday.

Presiding over a special Board of Governors meeting of the CCP at the CM House, President Zardari reflected the CCP’s commitment to maintaining its status as a premier institution for education and character building in Pakistan.

“The Cadet College Petaro has a significant role in Pakistan, particularly in Sindh. It has produced remarkable leaders in politics, the armed forces, civil bureaucracy, judiciary, and other fields. Even after 66 years, CCP stands strong, continuing its legacy of excellence. Wherever its alumni go, the training and success imparted by the college reflect in their personalities,” he said.

During the briefing, the president was told that CCP spans 758 acres and currently accommodates 846 students, with two swimming pools on campus. President Zardari directed CM Shah to establish two more swimming pools and ensure all necessary facilities were provided under a five-year plan.

The president directed the CM to commence the construction of 52 new houses for teaching and ministerial staff. The expansion of the academic block, a new mess and a sitting area for parents visiting the college were also proposed to enhance their experience.

CM Shah informed the president that he had approved a Rs200 million grant for the college to clear employee pension arrears. He added that the process of installing a 1.5 MW solar-powered electricity plant to reduce energy costs is currently underway.

President Zardari commended CCP’s administration and faculty for their dedication to nurturing future leaders and directed the CM to announce a special salary package for the college’s teaching staff.

The meeting was held at CM House. It was attended by CM Shah, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, chairman BoG Commodore Muhammad Faisal Iqbal Kazi, Secretary to President Shakeel Malik, Members BOG Commodore Faisal Iqbal, Secretary Finance Fayaz Jatoi, Secretary Colleges Asif Ikram, and others.

Published in Dawn, January 14th, 2025