TOBA TEK SINGH: Staff at the Jhang District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital, including nurses, staged a protest on Friday after receiving absentee notices despite being present on duty on April 4.

The staff demanded an inquiry into the hospital’s IT department and its malfunctioning biometric attendance system, instead of holding employees accountable for technical errors.

According to sources, the hospital administration issued notices to around 100 employees — including nurses, dispensers, OT staff, and computer operators — asking for written explanations over alleged absenteeism.

A departmental inquiry committee has been formed by the Punjab Health and Population Department’s project director to probe the matter.

Sources said that in the past, some nursing staff were dismissed on similar grounds.

Hospital officials said the notices were issued based on attendance reports generated by the IT office and a final decision would be taken after evaluating responses from the staff.

Deputy Commissioner Ali Akbar directed the medical superintendent and health CEO to present their version of the events and assured employees that no one would be penalised if they had fulfilled their duties.

ARRESTED: Faisalabad FIA anti-money laundering wing claims to have arrested two proclaimed offenders wanted in Libyan boat capsize case of 2023, in a raid at Daska, Sialkot district, on Friday.

As per FIA officials, POs Attaullah and Faisal Shahzad had illegally sent two residents of Faisalabad, Nadeem and Ajmal, to Italy after receiving hefty amounts from them. Later, Nadeem drowned in the Libya boat tragedy.

They said the arrested suspects are also involved in detaining and torturing people in safe houses in Libya.

WORKSHOP: The University of Kamalia held a workshop on graphic designing at its main campus on Friday.

Around 40 students took part in the training, which focused on modern graphic design, visual communication, and digital skills.

According to a press release, the workshop aimed to equip students with the tools needed to meet today’s professional demands.

Vice Chancellor Dr Yasir Nawab said the workshop marked the beginning of educational activities at the university and reflected a commitment to prepare students with modern knowledge and skills.

Published in Dawn, April 12th, 2025