LUMS alumna gets highest score in CSS exams

LUMS alumna, Shanza Faiq, BA-LL.B graduate of 2016, has topped the Central Superior Services (CSS) exam and has been inducted into the Foreign Services of Pakistan Group. In 2018, over 11,887 candidates appeared for the CSS exam from all over Pakistan, out of which only 567 were able to qualify. To not only top the list of qualified candidates but to also do it on her first attempt is no easy feat, and undoubtedly is a milestone LUMS should be proud of.

Students at LUMS are often encouraged and provided with the tools necessary to explore how their education and training can help them have a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Ms. Faiq and the excellent work that she has continued to do after graduation is a testament to that fact. Ms. Faiq previously won a fully-funded Woman of Pakistan Scholarship at the University of Warwick to pursue an LL.M in International Development Law and Human Rights, as well as the Fulbright Scholarship.

Talking about her most recent achievement Ms. Faiq said, “I feel extremely humbled and grateful for this privilege that has been bestowed upon me. It will take a while for this moment to sink in fully.”

Sharing how LUMS helped her achieve success, she added,

“The ability to critically analyze a vast volume of information from a range of perspectives and to think on the spot during the exam were just a few of the skills I imbibed during my time at LUMS. LUMS singlehandedly played the largest role in helping me achieve this position. Had it not been for the exposure, guidance and fine-tuning I received at LUMS, I would not have been able to win a scholarship for my Masters or successfully conquer the CSS exam. In essence, LUMS has been the single most pivotal stepping stone in my life and I shall always remain indebted to the people I met here, the encouragement I received, the roadblocks that were removed from my path during my time here and the unfettered support I received whenever I would need it. LUMS is not just a university — it is an experience that defines the rest of your life.”

On her aspirations, as she prepares to join the Foreign Service, Ms. Faiq says that she firmly believes it is a platform where she can carve an indelible niche not just for herself, but all women in Pakistan who wish to break the patriarchal glass ceiling.

Dr. Arshad Ahmad, Vice Chancellor LUMS, expressed his pride at her achievement and said, “Shanza, you make us very proud indeed! You are a role model and an inspiration to the young women of Pakistan to follow in your footsteps. Congratulations on these superb accomplishments as we share your success in celebration with the entire LUMS community.”

Syed Babar Ali, Founder, and Patron of LUMS, also congratulated Ms. Faiq on this wonderful achievement saying, “Hearty congratulations on your accomplishment. You make us all proud. Pakistan needs women like you to fulfill the nation’s potential. Wishing you continued success.”

We are very proud of Ms. Faiq’s achievements and wish her the best of luck for future endeavors.