Syed Ali Shah:
Quetta, September 30, 2024 – Professors and lecturers from the University of Balochistan and BUITEMS observed a hunger strike outside the Quetta Press Club on Monday, demanding the government address their grievances. The protest, organized by the academic staff associations of both universities, highlighted issues such as unpaid salaries and alleged corruption within the institutions.
Leading the protest were Professor Kaleemullah Bareech, Professor Fareed Achakzai, Professor Hasrat Hussain Shah, and other faculty members. They expressed their frustration over the lack of response from the authorities and the deteriorating conditions at their universities.
Professor Kaleemullah Bareech voiced his concerns, stating, “We have not received our salaries for months. How are we supposed to sustain our families and continue our work under such conditions? This is a gross injustice.”
Professor Fareed Achakzai added, “The corruption within our universities is rampant. Funds meant for academic development are being misused, and there is no accountability. We demand a thorough investigation and immediate action against those responsible.”
Professor Hasrat emphasized the impact on students, saying, “Our students are suffering due to the administrative failures and corruption. Their education is being compromised, and this is unacceptable. The government must intervene and resolve these issues promptly.”
The hunger strike drew significant attention from the media and the public, with many expressing solidarity with the protesting faculty members. The professors and lecturers have vowed to continue their protest until their demands are met, urging the government to take swift and decisive action to address the crisis in Balochistan’s higher education sector.
