Gujrat varsity faces administrative crisis

GUJRAT:

The University of Gujrat (UOG), one of the largest public sector universities in the region, is facing mounting criticism over an alleged administrative crisis, with concerns growing about its impact on admissions, governance and the future of thousands of students.

The controversy has intensified following the appointment of former UOG Vice Chancellor Dr. Zahoorul Haq as Vice Chancellor of the University of Rasul.

According to university sources, several experienced officials have since been transferred from UOG to the newly established institution, raising concerns among faculty members, students and parents.

At the centre of the controversy is the transfer of UOG's experienced online admissions team during the university's peak admission season.

The officials transferred include Director IT Zahid Raza, Additional Director Abu Al-Khair Muhammad Umar and Deputy Director Raja Ahmar Siddique. Critics claim the move has disrupted UOG's admission process and weakened the university's administrative capacity.

Some students questioned whether the University of Gujrat was being used as a "nursery" to strengthen another institution at the expense of its own academic and administrative needs.

The latest controversy comes amid ongoing disputes over appointments to key administrative positions, including the controller's office. Several faculty members have reportedly challenged some appointments in court, alleging irregularities and favouritism.

Young lecturers have also previously protested against the reported purchase of a new vehicle worth around Rs15 million and questioned the award of transport contracts.

A senior professor and dean, speaking on condition of anonymity, alleged that Dr Zahoorul Haq's resignation from UOG and immediate appointment at the University of Rasul was part of a broader plan linked to the utilisation of development funds for the new institution.

The ongoing situation has also drawn criticism over the perceived silence of local political leadership, including federal and provincial representatives from Gujrat.