The institute’s head was given a six-month extension in June 2013 by former president Asif Zardari.
Reports that the presidency has sought a fresh list of candidates for the appointment of a vice chancellor (VC) for Karakoram International University (KIU) have fuelled speculations over the reappointment of former VC Dr Najma Najam.
Najam completed her term in June last year and was awarded a six-month extension by former president Asif Zardari till the appointment of her replacement.
The KIU senate last month reportedly submitted a summary to President Mamnoon Hussain naming three candidates, excluding Najam, for the VC slot. But the presidency returned the summary and directed the relevant authorities to include Najam’s name in the list.
“The summary contained the names of Dr Mohammad Memon of Aga Khan University Hospital, Dr Asif Khan of Peshawar University and Pakistan Agricultural Research Council chairman Dr Iftikhar Ahmed,” said a university official requesting anonymity. He added the shortlist was compiled by the senate after interviewing the candidates.
Najam’s name was reportedly dropped by the senate’s head, Afzal Shigri, after a senate member vehemently opposed her inclusion in the list, terming her reappointment detrimental for the institution.
“The situation has changed now after the presidency’s directions and the new list will contain her name as a potential candidate for the top slot,” said the official.
While the appointment is yet to be finalised, public opinion in Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) stands divided over whether Najam should be given another term.
“She should retire now as her earlier tenure wasn’t ideal for the institution and G-B,” said Saeeda Mughal, a leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party. “She has become controversial after last year’s sectarian tension.” A number of religious parties too have opposed her reappointment. In December 2012, two people were killed and seven were injured after two student groups clashed near the university’s premises.
At the same time, Najam enjoys support from a section of the public as well. “I think she did a lot for KIU during her tenure,” said Khalid Hussain, a student. “During her tenure, KIU produced several PhDs and was recognised internationally.”
KIU Spokesman Shahid Shigri praised Najam, “What she achieved for the region would have been difficult even for a male VC.”
“Instead of appreciating what she did, people are criticising her tenure just to enjoy the limelight,” he said, urging people not to make the institute and its affairs controversial.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 10th, 2014.
COMMENTS (1)
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ
1713853507-0/MalalaHilary-(2)1713853507-0-270x192.webp)
Its indeed a dilemma after her inclusion. I believe Dr Mohammad Memon is an ideal candidate for the job. The tenure of Najma Najam remained unkind to the University which later became controversial. Therefore its high time to come up with some fresh and sincere candidate having the ability to cope up with sectarianism and regional politics as well because its not only academics its all about politics and influences. The university will always miss the great and dedicated Dr. Aziz Ali Najam.