Thanks to the Sindh Professors and Lecturers Association (SPLA), the sister organisation of educators in Sindh, for their just and firm stance in safeguarding the sanctity of education. At a time when Sindh’s education system faces a dire crisis, SPLA’s dedication to meritocracy, academic integrity and the dignity of educators stands as a beacon of hope. Their timely intervention has exposed the flawed policies of the Sindh government, which threaten to undermine the future of education.
The government’s recent policies, prioritising bureaucratic and politically motivated appointments over academic expertise, are deeply troubling. Historically, Sindh’s educational institutions have been pillars of knowledge and progress. However, sidelining qualified educationists in favour of bureaucratic governance has only weakened educational standards and added to the systemic challenges faced by teachers and students.
SPLA has rightly condemned these regressive policies, pointing to the hypocrisy of the Sindh Chief Minister’s statement that disrespected educators and trivialised their contributions. Educators are the backbone of society, and any attempt to undermine their role is not just offensive but detrimental to societal progress. SPLA’s leadership has asked a critical question: Were the appointments of Vice Chancellors and board heads made on merit? If not, why is the entire teaching community being held accountable for these failures?
The SPLA’s criticism extends to the government’s formula for educational governance, which prioritises bureaucratic control over academic leadership. This approach, as SPLA leaders emphasise, is a mockery of education. Had professors and educationists been appointed to key positions, Sindh’s education system could have excelled. Instead, current policies have deepened the crisis and alienated the teaching community.
SPLA’s support for FAPUASA’s demands underscores the need for merit-based appointments and academic independence. They have warned of robust protests, including examination boycotts, if these regressive policies are not reversed.
Education demands specialised leadership. SPLA’s principled stand is a clarion call for the Sindh government to respect educators, uphold merit and prioritise education over bureaucracy. The future of Sindh’s education hangs in the balance — decisive action is needed now.
Dr Intikhab Ulfat
Karachi
