NA Panel Slams National Testing Service for Allegedly Defrauding Public

The National Testing Service (NTS) faced sharp criticism in the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Science and Technology, which met under the chairmanship of Khawaja Sheeraz Mehmood. Committee members raised serious concerns about the transparency and legal standing of NTS, questioning why inquiries launched against the organization had not yielded clear outcomes. The chairman remarked that NTS had allegedly defrauded the public, yet no action had been taken, and accountability remained absent. The Federal Secretary for Science and Technology informed the committee that NTS is not a government institution but is registered as a private company in partnership with COMSATS University. Federal Minister for Science and Technology Khalid Magsi added that NTS has expanded into a major business entity, operating on a national scale. The committee decided to summon the Rector of COMSATS University to the next meeting to explain the university’s affiliation with NTS and respond to the concerns raised. The minister expressed strong displeasure over the absence of COMSATS University officials from the meeting. He directed the ministry to issue a formal warning to the university, stating that its non-compliance was unacceptable given its direct connection to NTS. The committee also demanded a detailed briefing on the structure, functioning, and accountability mechanisms of NTS in the upcoming session. In addition to the discussion on NTS, the Ministry of Science and Technology briefed the committee on the proposed development budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Officials said the ministry is seeking Rs. 11.75 billion to fund 33 ongoing and 9 new projects under its development program. The project’s aim is to strengthen the national science and technology infrastructure and enhance innovation and research capabilities across the country. Committee members reviewed the proposed allocations and asked for clarity on project outcomes, priorities, and implementation timelines. They stressed the importance of ensuring effective utilization of public funds and aligning the development agenda with national needs. Further scrutiny of the budget proposals is expected in the next committee meetings.