Editorial:
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In a humiliating way, four vice-chancellors of public universities in Balochistan were removed by the Governor/Chancellor the other day. Although, violations of laws and rules are nothing new in Balochistan, the country’s least-developed but resource-rich province.
Without any inquiry or investigation, the VCs of the University of Balochistan, Balochistan Univesity of Information Technology Engineering and Management Sciences (BUITEMS), Loralai University, and Lasbella Science and Marines University were removed from their positions.
Tenure of two VCs was about to expire
The sources within the Balochistan government cited the expiry of the tenure of the two VCs as the main reason behind the removal. However, the two VCs’ tenure was scheduled to be expired in September and October this year.
What was the reason behind this haste? The answer is simple. We are still alien to rules and regulations and consider our mighty official, political and social positions above the law.
As per the Balochistan Universities Act 2022, the Governor has no power to remove VCs in such a way
As per the Balochistan Universities Act 2022, the government can initiate an investigation against any VC in the case of corruption/moral corruption or illegal use of power. The government can only remove the said VC if allegations are proven against him. The Act clearly says that the VC has to be given the opportunity to defend himself against any allegations.
Whereas, Governor Malik Abdul Wali Kakar removed all with a stroke of a pen without any investigation.
Undoubtedly, there have to be no prolonged tenures of the VCs like Dr. Farooq Ahmed Bazai remained the VC for 17 years of the BUITEMS. He had to be changed. We have only an objection over the humiliating way, he was removed. There had to be a dignified and respectable way for the removal of VC who is also a teacher. Yes, there were allegations of nepotism and favouritism against Mr. Bazai.
Question marks over the capacity/credibility of SBK for recruitment of teachers
No word from the government or Governor’s house about the fate of VC Sardar Bahadur Khan (SBK) Women’s University. There were repeated allegations against the VC SBK. Nevertheless, the VC SBK managed to meet the Governor and brief him about her university.
The SBK has also been given the task to recruit 9000 teachers. Repeated complaints came in the process of recruitment by candidates about the SBK. Most of the candidates are skeptical about the credibility of the SBK and demand the Balochistan Public Service Commission (BPSC) conduct the recruitment process. National Party, a key Baloch nationalist party has also demanded of the government to conduct tests and interviews through BPSC.
Teachers’ posts should be given to the BPSC
No issue if agriculture posts are filled through departments or SBK. There has to be no compromise over the future of our children and the BPSC should be given the task to appoint teachers. Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Quddus Bizenjo should also translate his words into action in this regard.
