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August 12, 2007
Backtalk
THIS refers to Dr Larik’s article “PhDs Galore” published in the Education page (July 8). The issues raised by him have been promptly confronted by the HEC director who has shown concern about (a) appointment and promotions of non PhDs versus PhDs, (b) the quality of indigenous PhDs (c) the introduction of course work at PhD level and (d) the erosion of university autonomy by HEC. I would like to allay his concerns with additional arguments.
First, how can we compare our teaching and research standards to international ones when only 30% of our university teachers hold PhD degrees? In order to increase the number of PhDs, HEC’s efforts to open several avenues for the talented youth to undertake research degree programmes, nationally and internationally, is a step in right direction.
Second, it must be understood that the model for research degree programmes adopted by HEC conforms to American academic norms in letter and spirit. The UK model of “research only” at PhD level, as desired by Dr Larik, has no place in the present day explosion of knowledge and expanded multi-disciplinary vision. Even UK universities are gradually shifting to the American model (for example, Manchester Institute of Technology).
Third, it is becoming increasingly obvious that there is a re-birth of research in the universities. Immense amount of funds are being poured by the HEC into the universities for this purpose. In the present circumstances when international competition is mounting, it should be our considered opinion that promotions of teachers be based both on research contributions and teaching. As we come out of this present stagnation the teachers will rise on the ladder of promotion only when they undertaken scholarly activities by creating new knowledge. Lastly, there is some merit in the contention of Dr Larik that some HEC initiatives are causing erosion of University autonomy. This should attract the attention of Higher Education Commission. It is time to hold a general debate on this subject.
DR. M.H. QAZI (SI, TI)
KARACHI
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