Syed Jawad Muzaffar

39th Common, (PAS)

Please tell us about yourself, educational background and achievements in detail.

I belong to Karachi. I have studied in Chenar Army College, Murree till intermediate level. Then I did my bachelor in Computer Science from Karachi University and later on I did MBA in marketing from IBA, Karachi. After MBA I joined Nestle as Management Trainee officer. I joined a Dutch pharmaceutical company Organon as Assistant Manager Business Development, then I joined DAWN TV as an Associate Producer and also worked for Dawn.com in the same capacity. Finally, I appeared in CSS-2010 and topped Sindh Urban and got the top preference, i.e. PAS (Pakistan Administrative Service) the former DMG.


Being first position holder in Sindh Urban, what was the pattern of study did you follow for the preparation of CSS exams?

I adopted a straightforward strategy. It was mainly focused on general study for increasing the knowledge, with a special focus on newspapers. Apart from this I also studied books on politics and history.


What type of guidance should one seek to achieve such a wonderful success?

Aspirants should go for smart study. Effective time management and proper application of the knowledge whatever you have is very important. I use to take a lot of guidance from my seniors as well.


Did you join any academy for the preparation, if not, then how did you manage to get this privileged position?

No I did not study at any academy. I use to study in library for long hours. Here, I must say that perseverance is required to achieve such a privileged position.


What did you prefer, books or notes; what should be prepared and how?

There is no alternate of books; however once you go through the book. You can always prepare short notes for revision purpose. In my opinion books and notes both are essential for the success in the exam.


What are the steps for the preparation of CSS exams especially English Essay and Composition paper?

I believe that one should write a lot for the preparation of CSS exam. Only then one can convert his or her knowledge into a strong essay. I use to write at least one essay per week from the previous years' topics. For composition, one should improve sentence structure and try to avoid grammatical errors while attempting paper. For that, one can always get guidance from experienced English teachers.


What sort of combination should students opt for the optional subjects?

I totally disagree that one subject is scoring and we have to go for it. If you are good in any subject, in fact, you have aptitude for that subject, so one can easily make a difference in that subject. Thus, the selection of subjects should also be linked to your aptitude.


How many months and daily hours are required for CSS preparation?

There is no set pattern; however quality study is required along with a proper schedule and for this. Eight to 10 months are enough.


What are the general problems of CSS candidates in Sindh Urban? Give general and personal point of view.

The main problem is awareness. Then there is no proper guidance or encouragement for the aspirants of CSS.


Do you believe in 'Luck Factor' in CSS-exams?

I just believe that a person makes his own destiny. And God helps those who help themselves.


What is so special in Police Service of Pakistan (PSP)/ DMG / FSP that you opted for this group?

It is a versatile group with both vertical and horizontal mobility. The grooming options are best provided in this group and one gets the opportunity to work in a number of fields.


Being an officer of PAS, how would you deal with the administrative challenges, especially in Rural Sindh as well as in the mega city of Karachi?

I think strong faith in Allah is very necessary to cope with the challenges wherever I will be posted. One has to remember that he is a public servant and has to work for the peoples of Pakistan.


Any other thing, which you want to tell?

I would like to say that whatever one learns he must transfer that knowledge to others especially to the deserving class. And I strongly back this notion that education is the only solution for our social ills.


Any Message
I just say that be humble and have a strong faith in Allah. Do not find shortcuts, keep on working hard and never lose hope, you will certainly find success.