KARACHI:
Quaid-e-Azam University (QAU) is among the few internationally renowned universities in Pakistan. For the last few months, the university did not have a vice chancellor and the university affairs were handled by a caretaker appointed by the Higher Education Commission (HEC). The recent fight between two student groups further aggravated the situation at the university as the administration vacated hostels overnight and suspended all academic activities indefinitely.
The turmoil at QAU reflects poorly on the overall academic situation in the country. Around the world, university students often get into squabbles, but we rarely hear about police forces intervening in the university’s internal matters. Unfortunately, external forces interfering in university affairs have become a norm in Pakistan. University administrations and faculties lack basic consideration and empathy for students and resort to extreme measures to punish students for petty issues.
Had QAU students not highlighted the university’s irresponsible actions, most people would have remained unaware of the student’s plight. The government is either oblivious to the issue or does not care about the well-being of students. HEC and other relevant authorities should take notice of the issue and restore normalcy at QAU to avoid hampering students’ education. An enquiry committee should be set up to investigate the issue. In addition, all public universities should be directed to implement strict rules and regulations to prevent violence on campuses.
Saqib Hussain
Shahdadkot
Published in The Express Tribune, March 8th, 2023.
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