Sindh govt halts KU syndicate meeting

KARACHI:

The Sindh government has barred the University of Karachi's vice chancellor from convening a key syndicate meeting, in a move that has stalled several faculty appointments and promotions based on Selection Board recommendations.

The directive was issued through a letter by the Universities and Boards Department to the varsity's incumbent VC, Prof Dr Khalid Iraqi. Copies of the communication were also circulated among syndicate members.

The letter pertains to the 662nd syndicate meeting scheduled for July 27, 2026 - the same day the VC's tenure is due to expire. The department advised that the meeting be deferred until a regular Dr Iraqi's replacement is appointed and assumes charge.

Officials said the proposed agenda included critical policy, administrative, financial and service-related matters, including approval of Selection Board recommendations, appointments, and key governance decisions.

The department cautioned that decisions on such agenda items could have long-term legal, financial and administrative implications, with a lasting impact on the university's functioning.

"In view of the importance of the agenda, the current administrative and financial challenges faced by the university, and the fact that the meeting is proposed on the last day of the vice chancellor's tenure, it would be more appropriate in the interest of institutional continuity and good governance that these matters are taken up under the chairmanship of the incoming regular vice chancellor," the letter stated.

The department, therefore, advised postponing the meeting to ensure that key decisions are made under new leadership, which would also be responsible for their implementation and oversight.

The development has effectively delayed decisions on several pending appointments and promotions, adding to administrative uncertainty at the university.