Immediate action: Student organisations banned at state universities

Governor’s decision draws ire of such organisations.

PESHAWAR: Governor Sardar Mehtab Ahmed Khan has banned all student organisations in the province to ensure a conducive environment for learning at public sector universities across the province. This was stated in a handout issued on Tuesday.

It said the governor has urged varsity administrations across the province to observe this ban with immediate effect and distance themselves from such unions.

The handout added, “The governor, who is also the chancellor of all the public sector universities, has taken notice of the activities of student organisations and federations which violate the Supreme Court’s orders.”

Overhaul

A circular has been issued to all vice chancellors of public sector universities, directing them to take action against members of student organisation who are involved in illegal activities.

The relevant authorities have been asked to submit a compliance report to the governor.

Up in arms

The governor’s decision has drawn the ire of student organisations. A large number of students have suggested Mehtab should concentrate on improving the standard of education at universities rather than target student unions and federations.

Islami Jamiat-e-Talaba Central General Secretary Sohaibuddin Kakakhel has vehemently rejected the ban.

“These unions have raised their voice for the rights of students and are resolving their problems,” he said. “Most public sector universities have become a hub for corruption and mismanagement. The standard of education has decreased even though admission fees have increased every year.”

Published in The Express Tribune, July 8^th, 2015.