Islamabad: The Establishment Division has imposed strict, mandatory requirements for civil servants returning from educational programs, scholarships, or deputations—both abroad and within the country—pertaining to the verification of their degrees and the rigorous monitoring of financial guarantees.
Under the newly issued SOPs, the government has clarified that training and educational visits abroad—funded by the state—will no longer be treated as leave of an indefinite duration. Furthermore, a system of strict penalties, affecting both employment status and financial standing, has been introduced for any violations of these rules. Previously, bureaucrats returning from educational programs—whether at foreign universities or within the country—often delayed the submission of their final academic credentials; however, this new circular has completely altered the situation.
According to the new circular, officers returning from study leave or scholarships abroad are required to submit a certified copy of their degree certificate or an official academic transcript along with their joining report. If an officer fails to submit their degree without a valid and verified reason, they will be formally considered absent from duty.