REFERENCE the news report: ‘Columnist sacked by Sindh govt’ (June 21). I would like to clarify that Mr Asghar Soomro was engaged as a consultant on the World Bank Technical Assistance Programme by Reform Support Unit, School Education Department, for a period till June 30 as Communication Specialist on contractual terms and conditions.

It was his duty to highlight the department’s activities in the media. Instead, he wrote an article on June 13 in violation of his contractual obligations. He twisted the facts in the article that caused damage to the reputation and credibility of the government of Sindh, School Education Department and Reform Support Unit.

His allegations may affect ongoing education reform programmes and the smooth functioning of different development partners working for the betterment of Sindh’s education. The action taken against Mr Soomro is in accordance with the relevant terms and conditions.

Spokesman
School Education Department
Government of Sindh
Karachi

Published in Dawn, June 23rd, 2017