The recent dismissal order by Governor Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider, regarding 228 appointments and promotions at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad (UAF) has sparked significant media attention. However, this coverage has focused on one side of the story, and we aim to present important facts to provide a balanced perspective.
Governor’s Order: Key Concerns
The Governor’s order claims that the Vice Chancellor (VC) made 228 appointments without advertisements, which is not entirely accurate. According to law, the VC cannot make appointments without following the proper procedures, including advertisements, but the process at UAF adhered to the statutory framework.
Staff Shortage at UAF: A Growing Crisis
UAF faces a severe shortage of faculty members. With a student-to-teacher ratio that does not meet HEC standards, the university needs at least 1,100 faculty members. However, it currently has around 700, causing frustration and departures among faculty due to lack of promotions.
Ideal Teacher-Student Ratio | Required Faculty Members | Current Faculty Members | Shortfall |
---|---|---|---|
1:20 (Ideal) | 1,700 | 700 | 1,000 |
1:30 (HEC Standard) | 1,100 | 700 | 400 |
Recruitment Process: Transparency and Legal Compliance
Between 2022 and 2023, UAF advertised numerous vacancies, receiving thousands of applications. These were evaluated in a fair and legal manner, with ineligible candidates given an opportunity to appeal. The process is lengthy but necessary to ensure fairness, and the HEC has mandated completion by August 2024.
Year | Vacancies Advertised | Applications Received | Selection Board Meetings | Appointments & Promotions Recommended |
---|---|---|---|---|
2022 | Numerous | Thousands | 100+ | 500+ |
Syndicate’s Role in Appointment Decisions
The university’s syndicate, consisting of 17 members, is responsible for approving appointments. This group includes high-ranking officials and experts, ensuring that decisions are based on merit. The Governor’s order misinterprets the role of the syndicate in the decision-making process.
Violation of Legal Process: Lack of Fair Hearing
The Governor’s order was issued without affording affected parties a personal hearing, violating Section 11-A of the University Act. The Governor failed to meet the VC during his visit in October and issued the order after the VC’s retirement, which raises concerns about the fairness of the decision-making process.
Date | Event | Action Taken |
---|---|---|
October 8, 2023 | Governor’s visit to UAF | No personal hearing with the VC |
October 21, 2023 | Record sought after VC’s retirement | Order issued without affording a hearing |
Political Influence on the Decision
The Governor’s actions seem influenced by political motives. His refusal to approve appointments of Vice Chancellors and public accusations of corruption in selection committees have undermined the credibility of the process. This political interference has led to unrest within the UAF community.
Call for Reconsideration and Legal Action
We urge the Governor to reconsider his order and provide a fair hearing to all affected individuals. If this request is not fulfilled, we will have no choice but to challenge the order legally. We believe the courts must intervene to ensure justice is served.
Conclusion: Upholding Fairness and Justice
The dismissal order has harmed the careers of 228 individuals and raised serious questions about the legality of the process. We call for a fair and transparent review of the situation to protect the integrity of UAF and its academic community. We also urge the media to present both sides of the story, allowing the public to form an informed opinion.
Written by:
Iqrar Ahmad Khan, Former Vice Chancellor, University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF)