Protests Disrupt Academic Activities Across Sindh Universities for Fifth Day
Academic activities in universities across Sindh remained suspended for the fifth consecutive day as protests against the appointment of bureaucrats as vice-chancellors gained momentum.
The Federation of All Pakistan Academic Staff Association Sindh (Fapuasa) initiated the boycott on January 16, expressing strong opposition to the government’s decision to amend the Universities Act to allow non-academics and bureaucrats to serve as vice-chancellors. Teaching has been disrupted in over 17 universities, including the University of Karachi.
Key Concerns and Demands
Fapuasa representatives have condemned the proposed amendments, asserting that they undermine academic autonomy and the quality of higher education. They have demanded the immediate withdrawal of these changes and warned of intensified protests if the policies are not reversed.
The association’s Sindh chapter has called for province-wide protests, observing a black day and mobilizing the academic community through general body meetings. Members have been instructed to hold press conferences and rallies at their respective universities to oppose what they describe as the government’s “anti-education policies.”
Fapuasa Sindh President and General Secretary criticized the government for supporting non-permanent faculty appointments and bureaucratic leadership in universities. They called these decisions a disregard for academic dignity and meritocracy, which are essential for fostering higher education.
Wider Concerns Over Academic Standards
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has echoed concerns, warning that appointing bureaucrats and non-PhDs as vice-chancellors compromises the autonomy and academic standards of universities.
Fapuasa leaders reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding academic freedom and ensuring leadership positions are based on merit. They emphasized that politicizing or bureaucratizing university governance would face unified resistance from the academic community in Sindh.
Escalating Actions
Fapuasa has announced plans for a press conference to formally declare a complete boycott of academic activities across all public universities in Sindh. The association remains steadfast in its demand for reforms that uphold academic independence and meritocracy.
As the protests intensify, the impasse highlights growing tensions between the academic community and the government over the future of higher education governance in the province.
