By setting the qualification as a degree in Fine Arts, the SPSC is not only excluding highly qualified archaeology graduates but also potentially compromising the integrity and effectiveness of the curating process in our museums.
Aizaz Peerzado
In an alarming and disheartening turn of events, the Sindh Public Service Commission (SPSC) has announced a position for a Curator within the Culture, Tourism, Antiquities, Archives, and Archaeology Department of Sindh.
The qualifications stipulated for this crucial role are a four-year degree in Fine Arts. This decision not only undermines the specialized education and training of archaeology students but also raises serious questions about the criteria and processes used by the SPSC.
As a student in the field of archaeology, I, along with my peers, have dedicated years to mastering the science and art of unearthing, conserving, curating, and displaying artifacts that tell the rich history of our land. Archaeology students in Sindh are rigorously trained in excavation techniques, conservation methodologies, and the curating of artifacts, making them uniquely qualified for positions that require such expertise.
It is deeply concerning that the SPSC does not recognize this specialized training and instead favors a degree that, while valuable in its own right, does not align with the specific needs of the role.
The role of a Curator in the context of archaeology goes far beyond the artistic presentation of artifacts. It involves understanding the historical significance ensuring the scientific preservation, and providing accurate interpretations of the artifacts to the public.
These are skills that are honed through an archaeology-focused education and hands-on field experience. By setting the qualification as a degree in Fine Arts, the SPSC is not only excluding highly qualified archaeology graduates but also potentially compromising the integrity and effectiveness of the curating process in our museums.
It is imperative that the SPSC reevaluates this decision and recognizes the qualifications of archaeology students who have spent years studying the intricate details of our past. The current criteria not only alienate the most appropriate candidates but also discourage students from pursuing specialized education in archaeology, knowing that their career opportunities may be unjustly limited.
I urge the authorities, including the Culture, Tourism, Antiquities, Archives, and Archaeology Department of Sindh, to address this issue and rectify this oversight. It is essential to establish qualification criteria that reflect the true nature of the job and the expertise required.
This will not only ensure that the most qualified individuals are appointed but also uphold the standards and integrity of our archaeological heritage. In conclusion, this is a call for justice and fairness in the appointment processes within the SPSC. Let us not diminish the value of specialized education and experience in archaeology. Instead, let us ensure that our heritage is preserved and presented by those who have dedicated their academic and professional lives to understanding and protecting it.
Also read: Sindh Public Service Commission: Question of Credibility
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Aizaz Peerzado is resident of Village Balhreji near Mohen Jo Daro, District Larkano Sindh. He has graduated in Archaeology and currently is doing M.Phil. on fast vanishing heritage sites in the province – Images provided by the author
The Archaeology is a scientific subject which help the scholars to make researches in the past civilizations. It also provide the curators in the museums to look after the arfifacts and educate people, especially the young generation about their past glory.
The subject of Fine Arts doesn’t relates to Archaeology. Archaeology discovers the hidden past, also polish and highlights the lost culture and way of living. Curator is responsible to keep artefacts in sound condition and keep cultural treasure for present and future generation.