HEC slammed for suspending varsities funds

KARACHI:

Dr Amjad Siraj Memon, Acting Vice Chancellor of Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University Lyari (BBSUL), has raised concerns over reports of the federal Higher Education Commission's (HEC) decision to withhold funds for provincial universities in the upcoming financial year.

Dr Memon stressed that the suspension of annual funding by the HEC would have serious repercussions for universities across the province, including BBSUL. He stressed the importance of continued financial support for universities and called for a resolution on funding matters by the Council of Common Interest.

Speaking at the university's second convocation held at Bara Dari, the acting VC announced the awarding of certificates to 477 students and Nishan-e-Sipas to 75 students for their outstanding academic performance.

Expressing gratitude to the Sindh Higher Education Commission (HEC), Dr Memon acknowledged their past financial support, including grants totaling Rs6 million three years ago, followed by Rs14 million and Rs23 million in subsequent years, announced by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.

Regarding the challenges faced by BBSUL during the Covid-19 pandemic, the acting VC highlighted the transition to online classes and the subsequent loss of practical sessions. Despite these hurdles, the university has managed to mitigate the impact on students' education.

Dr Memon underscored the need for a bailout package to address the dilapidated infrastructure of the university, particularly the computer science and IT departments. He appealed for the restoration of halted funding to prevent further deterioration of essential facilities.

The acting VC underlined the importance of appointing a permanent VC to ensure the effective administration of BBSUL. He urged the relevant authorities to start the process of selecting a permanent VC through official channels.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 22^nd, 2024.