LAHORE: Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Association on Friday demanded that government should immediately appoint vice chancellors in public sector universities of the Punjab to address the issues faced by the universities of the province.
President FAPUASA and President Punjab University Academic Staff Association (PUASA) Dr. Amjad Abbas Khan Magsi in a statement said that Public sector universities in Pakistan have been grappling with a severe crisis caused by more than two years of administrative instability and ad-hoc leadership. This ongoing situation destroyed the academic environment.
The Punjab government took a positive step by initiating the process of appointing VCs, and there was widespread anticipation that this procedure would be completed without unnecessary delays.
FAPUASA call upon the Chancellor, the Governor, to acknowledge the gravity of the situation. Both the Constitution of Pakistan and the relevant University Acts clearly outline the roles of the Chief Minister and Governor in these appointments. It is crucial that the selection of VCs not be hampered by political disagreements.
The Search Committee has already finalized its recommendations, and further delays are only contributing to confusion and worsening the state of universities. Therefore, we urge the authorities to act swiftly to appoint qualified Vice Chancellors, ensuring that stability is restored in our educational institutions.
On August 31, 2024, the Supreme Court of Pakistan issued a directive mandating the appointment of Vice Chancellors for vacant posts across the country. We commend the Punjab government for recognizing the urgency of this issue and taking meaningful steps in the interests of higher education. However, despite this progress, the Chancellor’s office seems hesitant in implementing these crucial appointments. FAPUASA once again urges for prompt action to be taken to resolve this matter and safeguard the future of our universities.
In line with the exercise of executive powers vested in the office of the Chancellor, the Chief Minister serves as the final authority to appoint Vice Chancellors. Given the ongoing delays, it is imperative that the Chief Minister acts decisively to ensure that these appointments are made without further impediments, restoring normalcy and stability to public sector universities.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
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