The Sindh government’s controversial move to replace permanent faculty appointments with contractual hires is deeply troubling. This change not only disrupts career progression from lecturer to senior positions like professor and dean but also undermines the academic and research ecosystem by discouraging stability and long-term commitment. Excellence in teaching and research thrives on continuity, which these temporary contracts fail to provide.
The academic fraternity, represented by the Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Association (FAPUASA), Sindh Chapter, is seriously concerned over such policies that undermine university autonomy and jeopardise faculty career progression.
Equally concerning is the involvement of government-appointed members in syndicates and the requirement for the CM’s approval for statutory decisions erode institutional independence. Universities, by their very nature, must operate as autonomous bodies, free from political and bureaucratic meddling. This also contradicts the spirit of the 18th Amendment, which aimed to bolster provincial autonomy.
Faculty members are further burdened by a lack of economic security, with no prospects for permanent appointments or pension benefits. Procedural delays, such as requiring government approval for ex-Pakistan leave, add to their distress. Suspension of hiring and stalled promotions has created bureaucratic roadblocks, damaging academic programs and demoralising faculty.
FAPUASA has announced a series of actions to protest these policies, including the observance of black day and press conferences in December and a potential province-wide suspension of academic activities starting January. These measures aim to protect the autonomy of universities and restore dignity to the teaching profession.
We urge the provincial government to rethink its policies and engage in dialogue with academic stakeholders, as universities are vital to societal progress. Students, parents and civil society must stand in solidarity with the academic community to protect university autonomy and faculty rights, ensuring the sanctity of higher education in Sindh.
Dr Intikhab Ulfat
Karachi
