Syed Ali Shah:
Quetta: University teachers in Balochistan have called off their weeks-long strike after successful negotiations with Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti. The teachers had been protesting over financial constraints and resource shortages in the province’s universities.
Education Minister Raheela Hameed Khan Durrani, Provincial Irrigation Minister Mir Sadiq Umrani, and opposition lawmakers Khair Jan Baloch and Syed Zafar Ali Agha played key roles in brokering the agreement that led to the end of the strike.
Chief Minister Bugti expressed his commitment to addressing the universities’ financial challenges. “We are fully aware of the difficulties our universities are facing. I have assured the teachers that we will resolve the ongoing financial crisis. An important meeting with all Vice Chancellors has already been scheduled to discuss the issue in detail,” said Bugti.
Education Minister Raheela Durrani also spoke on the importance of resolving the issues at hand. “Our priority is the future of our students, and we cannot afford disruptions in their education. The government is committed to supporting the universities and their staff,” she remarked.
Opposition lawmakers Khair Jan Baloch and Syed Zafar Ali Agha, who facilitated the negotiations, lauded the government’s efforts in taking immediate action. “We are glad that the teachers’ demands are being seriously considered. We hope this marks the beginning of long-term reforms for higher education in Balochistan,” said Baloch.
Dr. Kaleemullah Bareech, leader of the University Academic Staff Association, expressed cautious optimism about the outcome. “While we have called off the strike, we expect the government to follow through on its promises. The financial health of our universities is critical to maintaining academic standards,” Bareech said. Dr. Sohail and Dr. Hasrat of the BUITEMS were also present on the occasion.
Fareed Khan Achakzai, another leader of the association, echoed the sentiment. “We have been patient, but we need concrete actions. The government’s commitment is a positive step, and we will continue to push for the fulfillment of our demands,” he added.
The strike, which lasted several weeks, had caused a significant disruption in the academic schedule across various universities in the province.
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