I RECENTLY watched a TV programme featuring a university vice-chancellor. I was shocked to see his grand arrival, complete with official cars and guards wearing huge, traditional turbans. This reminded me of my visit to Beihang University in China to attend a friend’s PhD graduation. At the end of the day, the vice-chancellor of that world-class university simply took his bicycle and quietly rode home. There was no protocol, no VIP treatment and no show-off.

This is the main difference between us and successful nations. We are still stuck in a colonial mindset where big cars and royal protocols are used to show power. In China, leaders focus on work, humility and real results.

As a common citizen, I feel our academic leaders need to step down from these royal pedestals. Real respect comes from high-quality education and simplicity, not from the size of a security guard’s turban.

Dr Mahmood Qureshi
Sukkur

Published in Dawn, October 25th, 2026