On fake degrees

KARACHI: As a member of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), I wish to express my full support for the principled stand of the HEC about it being the only mandatory body responsible for certifying the authenticity of university degrees.

I condemn the unethical tactics being employed to pressurise the HEC chairman, Dr Javaid Leghari. The HEC must follow the ruling of the Supreme Court and act speedily and to the fullest extent. Fear of corruption or destruction of data, should lead to the immediate sealing of records, and help of external experts and civil society persons should be sought.

To reinforce its credibility, ensure transparency and avoid conflicting press reports the HEC should henceforth consider posting updated details of its work on its website. This should include the instructions given by the HEC to universities while also updating the progress of each university on the website.  A time-line for the progress and completion of the work should also be displayed on the HEC website.

The HEC and universities are responsible to the community, society and nation at large in providing information in a timely manner relative to the verification of degrees.

It is for the Election Commission to take necessary action against those found guilty.

Member, Higher Education Commission

Published in The Express Tribune, July 28^th, 2010.