Karachi:
Protests against the Sindh government’s proposed amendment to the Sindh Universities and Institutes Laws Act have been ongoing since January 6, leading to a halt in academic activities across public universities in Sindh.
Educators and academic professionals strongly oppose the amendment, which they believe could undermine the leadership structure of higher education in the province.
Details of the Proposed Amendment
The controversial bill proposes to allow bureaucrats and non-academic officials to be appointed as vice-chancellors (VCs) alongside professors.
Academics argue that this change would undermine higher education, as those with no experience in research or academic inquiry cannot effectively lead research-driven institutions.
Initially, the bill required VC candidates to hold a Ph.D., but this condition was removed after review by the Standing Committee, leaving only a master’s degree as a requirement. This means that engineering universities could have a VC with a master’s in engineering, general universities could be led by someone with a master’s in arts, and medical universities could have a VC with a basic master’s degree in a relevant field.
Government’s Position
The Sindh government argues that the bill is meant to improve university administration. Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has stated that many previous VCs and board chairpersons have faced allegations of corruption and harassment, and appointing administrators from different backgrounds would improve governance. However, he clarified that professors would still be eligible to apply for the VC position under the new framework.
Reaction from Education Experts
Education experts reject this reasoning, questioning whether bureaucrats are free from corruption and highlighting issues of mismanagement in other government departments in Sindh.
Protests and Suspension of Academic Activities
Protests have led to the suspension of academic activities across Sindh, with Karachi University appearing deserted as classes have been suspended for days. The disruption is not limited to Karachi; universities throughout the province remain non-operational.
Students’ Concerns
The timing of the protests is particularly concerning, as students have just started their academic year. With classes suspended, students are worried about falling behind in their coursework, impacting exam preparations.
Consultation with Professors
During a press conference, Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon was asked if professors—key stakeholders in higher education—had been consulted before drafting the bill. Critics argue that major policy changes should involve faculty members to ensure informed decision-making.
Previous Delays and Concerns
In 2018, authority over universities was transferred from the Governor of Sindh to the Chief Minister’s office, leading to delays in key appointments. Despite these changes, timely appointments have not been made, with controllers, secretaries, and auditors still missing from education boards.
Experts now worry that instead of addressing existing issues, the government is creating new problems.
Suspension of Academic Process
Teachers have acknowledged students’ concerns and promised to cover the missed syllabus once classes resume, but the core academic process remains suspended.
Government’s Determination
Despite the opposition, the Sindh government is determined to pass the bill. The Chief Minister has reiterated that the legislation will be implemented, arguing that the government knows what is best for education. However, at the very least, the government should engage in discussions with professors to address legitimate concerns.
