Varsity teachers call for merit-based appointments of VCs

LAHORE:Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Association (FAPUASA) has demanded immediate merit-based appointments of Vice Chancellors (VCs) to, what it observed, address the crisis in public sector universities in Punjab.

FAPUASA president Dr Amjad Abbas Khan Magsi, who is also president of the Punjab University Academic Staff Association (PUASA), in a statement said that public sector universities in Pakistan had been grappling with a severe crisis caused by more than two years of administrative instability and ad hoc leadership. This situation has inflicted substantial damage on the academic environment while also reducing educational opportunities for the general public.

Dr Magsi said that the Punjab government took a positive step by initiating the process of appointing VCs, and there was anticipation that this procedure would be completed without unnecessary delays.

‘We 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 role of the CM and governor in these appointments. It is crucial that the VCs selection not be hampered by political disagreements’.

The FAPUASA president said that the Search Committees had already finalised its recommendations, and further delays were 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 issued a directive mandating the appointment of VCs for vacant posts across the country. We commend the Punjab government for recognising 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.