Supreme Court of Pakistan Partners with LUMS to Enhance Judicial Reforms
The Supreme Court of Pakistan (SCP) has signed an MoU with LUMS to modernise the judiciary using technology. The agreement, formalised on March 10, 2025, in Islamabad, was signed by Mr. Muhammad Salim Khan, Registrar of the Supreme Court, and Dr. Tariq Jadoon, Provost of LUMS, in the presence of Hon’ble Chief Justice of Pakistan, Mr. Justice Yahya Afridi. Also present at the event was Dr. Mohammad Hanif, representing Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI), marking a significant step toward academic collaboration in judicial reform.
The collaboration outlines several key areas of cooperation aimed at improving the overall judicial efficiency. Among the major goals, the partnership will focus on human resource management strategies for the Supreme Court of Pakistan, including personnel management policies, performance management systems, and training and development plans. The two institutions will also collaborate on the establishment of a comprehensive data management function within the Supreme Court, conducting need-based data analysis and reporting, and supporting the court in its recruitment process by assisting in hiring staff.
The partnership will enhance judicial efficiency by introducing a litigant-feedback scorecard, increasing transparency, and improving accessibility through modern communication tools. Specialised training programmes will also be provided to SCP’s IT team, focusing on cybersecurity, data analytics, and emerging technologies. Additionally, a central IT repository will be established to house best practices, troubleshooting guides, and SOPs, streamlining digital operations within the court.
Chief Justice Mr. Justice Yahya Afridi emphasised that this partnership is a critical step toward a more transparent and efficient judicial system. He stated, “This partnership with LUMS and GIKI marks a pivotal step toward integrating technology-driven solutions for an efficient, transparent, and people-centric judiciary.” Both Professor Dr. Tariq Jadoon and Professor Dr. Mohammad Hanif expressed their commitment to supporting the Supreme Court in this transformative journey.
The MoU, valid until 2027, is expected to lay the foundation for a technology-driven justice system in Pakistan. The agreement also highlights the creation of a working group comprising representatives from both LUMS and the Supreme Court, ensuring long-term monitoring and management of the partnership’s progress. These working groups will periodically meet to review developments, address challenges, and recommend necessary adjustments.
By strengthening these areas of cooperation, the SCP and LUMS are paving the way for a more effective and transparent judicial system.