The Institute of Administrative Sciences (IAS) at University of the Punjab has been a pioneer in imparting education, training, skills and conducting research in Public Administration, Governance and Public Policy. The institute was founded in the year 1962 and with a rich history of 57 years; it has successfully covered an academic journey while producing leaders and change catalysts serving globally. As part of its developmental initiatives, IAS organized the event of Ground-breaking ceremony of the Centre for Governance and Policy Dialogue on 3^rd May 2019. This center to be constructed at IAS would serve as a hub of intellectual discussions, conversation and dialogue on governance, public policy and public administration.

Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, PhD (SI), Vice Chancellor of University of the Punjab was the Chief Guest of the occasion. Prof. Niaz along with Deans and other members were warmly welcomed by the IAS Faculty and staff members. To share a brief background of laying the foundations of the Center, a formal ceremony was conducted at the Dr. Muhammad Afzal Auditorium where the program began with the recitation of Holy verses by Huzaifa-tur-Razzam (student of BS Management). Dr. Sidra Irfan – Assistant Professor and stage secretary for the ceremony welcomed all the guests and invited Prof. Dr. Naisra Jabeen – Dean Faculty of Economics & Management Sciences (FEMS) and Director – Institute of Administrative Sciences (IAS) to share her expressions. Professor Dr. Nasira Jabeen shared her vision and objectives of establishing the Center for Governance and Policy Dialogue at IAS. She shared that the Centre will encourage trans-disciplinary dialogue and discussions on public policy, governance and public administration engaging scholars from different fields and diverse communities.