Curtail the autonomy of universities and empowering the Higher Education Commission through amending its Ordinance is unacceptable – FAPUASA
From Correspondent
Islamabad
Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Association (FAPUASA) strongly condemned the recent move to curtail the autonomy of universities and empowering the Higher Education Commission (HEC as policing) through amending its Ordinance.
This move is highly concerning and unacceptable, as it will not only undermine the autonomy of the universities but also adversely affect the quality of higher education in Pakistan.
In a statement on Thursday April 20, 2023, FAPUASA demanded that the government focuses on the betterment of higher education institutions and to provide sufficient funds to the universities which are facing severe financial crisis.
“The universities have played a pivotal role in the development of higher education in Pakistan, and any attempt to weaken its autonomy will have far-reaching negative consequences.”
“We urge the government and members of the parliament to reconsider its decision and refrain from taking any steps that may harm the higher education sector in Pakistan,” it said.
As per 18th Constitutional Amendment, standards in Higher Education falls under the preview of Council of Common Interest as shared dominion of federal and provincial governments.
“That is why no amendment in HEC Ordinance cannot be made without consulting provincial governments. Furthermore, FAPUASA suggests that if any amendments are necessary, then consultation should be made with other stakeholders, including FAPUASA.”
“We believe that any decision related to the higher education sector must be made through a consultative process, and all relevant stakeholders must be taken on board.”
It is only through such a collaborative approach that we can ensure the betterment of higher education in Pakistan. FAPUASA once again expresses its strong opposition to the recent move by the government to curtail the autonomy of Universities through an ordinance.
“We call upon the government to prioritize the betterment of higher education institutions and the HEC and engage in a consultative process with all stakeholders, including FAPUASA, to make any necessary amendments,” statement concludes.
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