Higher education in peril
The higher education sector in Pakistan is in crisis. At least 51 out of 154 universities across the country are functioning without regular vice-chancellors, a dire situation that raises serious questions about the effectiveness of provincial governments and other authorities. This comes at a time when the sector is already struggling to cope with a lack of funds and a shortage of qualified staff.
The absence of regular vice-chancellors in so many universities is deeply troubling. These positions are crucial for the proper functioning of the institutions, and their absence can have a significant impact on the quality of education and research being conducted. It also raises questions about the stability and governance of these universities. The situation is particularly alarming given that the higher education sector is already facing significant challenges. Lack of funding has led to a decline in the quality of education, while the shortage of qualified staff has made it difficult for universities to attract and retain top talent. This has had a negative impact on the overall reputation of the sector, both domestically and internationally.
It is clear that urgent action is needed to address these issues. The provincial governments and other authorities must take immediate steps to appoint regular vice-chancellors in all universities. This will not only help stabilise the institutions, but also ensure that they are able to provide quality education and conduct research of international standards. Furthermore, efforts must be made to increase funding for the higher education sector. This will help attract and retain qualified staff, improve infrastructure and enhance the overall quality of education. It is only through such measures that we can hope to address the challenges facing the sector and ensure that our universities are able to compete on the global stage.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 1st, 2024
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.