Islamabad, The Ministry of Housing and Works, in coordination with the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA), organized a comprehensive conference to shed light on the E-PAK Acquisition and Disposal System (EPADS) and the broader aspects of E-Procurement.

According to a news release by the Press International Department, the meeting took place in the committee room of the Ministry of Housing and Works, B-Block, Pak Secretariat Islamabad, attracting numerous department heads and senior officers. The Secretary of Housing and Works opened the proceedings, signifying the Secretaries Committee’s push for such trainings across all ministries and departments. Following the introductory remarks, the Executive Director of PPRA formally began the session, announcing PPRA’s decision to implement the E-Procurement System at the federal level. Dubbed the “E-PAK Acquisition and Disposal System (EPADS)”, this system will encompass every stage of public procurement, from planning to contract closure.

The PPRA representative also shared insights about the E-Procurement’s current penetration, noting its adoption in 18 ministries and 166 departments with an expenditure of Rs. 10 billion to date, and an expected Rs. 15 billion for the next fiscal year. Additionally, 600 vendors have so far registered under the system. On queries regarding potential overlaps with provincial authorities, the PPRA representative assured attendees that the software’s design ensures only essential integration, with no interference into provincial procurement affairs.

Mr. Ijaz Haider Malik, Project Manager at M/s Abacus Consulting, Islamabad, then transitioned the gathering into a technical session, detailing the modern trends of E-Governance procurement (e-GP). He emphasized that the EPADS system, a centralized end-to-end procurement solution, has been crafted to cater to both federal and provincial regulatory authorities. Moreover, the system promises improved efficiency, greater transparency, and better value for money, particularly through mechanisms like the electronic reverse auction.

Concluding the comprehensive discourse, two primary decisions were reached:

1. The Ministry of Housing and Works will maintain its liaison with PPRA until all pertinent officers and officials from its ministry and affiliated organizations complete their training.

2. All departments and organizations are to designate officers and officials for said training.

The conference concluded with mutual appreciation and acknowledgment from the attendees.