THIS is with reference to the report ‘Governor refuses assent to varsities bill, returns it to PA’ (Feb 12), according to which, the move has dented the Sindh government’s efforts to enable bureaucrats to become vice-chancellors (VCs) of universities across the province.

Serious concerns have been voiced by the academic community regarding the future of higher education in the province after the provincial assembly (PA) approved the controversial Sindh Universities and Institutes Laws (Amendment) Bill, enabling bureaucrats with only a master’s degree to assume the important role of VC.

While government officials continue to defend the decision, citing a limited pool of suitable candidates, academia has questioned the wisdom of placing research-oriented institutions under the guidance of those lacking sufficient academic credentials. The role of a VC, after all, is not merely administrative. It also demands academic vision and research acumen to foster institutional excellence.

The higher education system in Pakistan is already struggling. At this critical juncture, the standard for university leadership must not be compromised, as the role of bureaucracy in governing public institutions has been hardly inspiring.

Universities are hubs of innovation and knowledge creation. Therefore, leaders must be skilled in both academic and administrative attributes. By appointing leaders who lack advanced academic credentials, institutions may risk losing their reputation in the international academic community while compromising educational quality, faculty motivation, and institutional credibility.

One possible way forward is ensuring that any bureaucrat considered for a VC role holds a PhD in an academic discipline, and should have substantial and proven academic contributions. This will ensure a balance between administrative capacity and scholarly expertise.

With a growing number of PhD-holding bureaucrats at its disposal, the government should consider upholding academic standards by requiring a PhD for VC appointments. It may also establish pathways to equip academics with lead-ership and management training programmes. This approach will improve governance without compromising academic rigour, thereby strengthening university leadership.

Strengthening the selection process is a step forward, but true success lies in addressing fundamental challenges, like accountability and independent oversight.

A transparent, merit-based, independent selection process is necessary to uphold academic integrity, enhance global competitiveness, and drive academic excellence. The decisions made today will define the future of the higher education.

Name withheld on request
Gambat

Published in Dawn, February 14th, 2025