THIS is apropos of the recruitment of 22 lecturers in six departments of the University of Turbat, Balochistan. Written tests for these posts were conducted through the National Testing Service (NTS). Interviews were held on Nov 18 and 19. There are many reasons to believe that there was nepotism and utter disregard of merit in the selection of candidates.

First, the majority (90 per cent) of the selected candidates belonged to Kech, Turbat. Second, different criteria were adopted for selection in different departments.

For instance, in one department those candidates were preferred who had highest marks in NTS examinations. While in other departments, the candidates having lowest possible marks were selected over toppers.

Third, one was bewildered to observe that a relative of a top government functionary was included in the interview panel. One doubts if he was a member of the university syndicate or selection panel.

Finally, it is a well-known principle in all HEC-recognised universities that only those candidates are called for interview who are able to get at least 60 per cent marks in written examinations.

However, this is not the case in Turbat University as candidates having 50 per cent marks in NTS test were called for interview and even preferred over those who achieved 70 per cent marks.

One is forced to say that if political parties in the provincial government wanted to benefit their party workers, they should have given them party tickets for local elections instead of having them appointed as lecturers in University of Turbat.

Every day one reads statements that call for establishment of new universities and medical colleges in Balochistan. However, these new institutions will never achieve their purpose if merit is so vividly sabotaged with impunity.

S.M. ASLAM

Jaffarabad