NIH body to consider promotion of BPS-20 official

ISLAMABAD: All is set for the appointment of the National Health Institute (NIH) Executive Director in violation of rules as the prime candidate is not qualified for the post.

According to a senior official of the NIH, the Departmental Selection and Promotion Committee (DSPC) is being held today (Tuesday) at the NIH for the promotion of one of the chiefs of Divisions (BS-20).

Minister of State for Health Saira Afzal Tarar is chairman of the DSPC while the health secretary and representative of Establishment Division are the members of the committee.

As per NIH Employees (Service) Regulation 1989 Section 4, the executive director is not the employee of the Institute. But this is the first time that an employee of NIH is being considered for promotion to the post of executive director (ED).

As per Establishment Division code posts on BPS 20 and 21 are selection posts and promotion to these posts is to be processed through the Central Selection Board. The names of two NIH officials are being considered for the promotion as per documents.

Both the proposed official cannot be considered for the promotion. A nominee does not possess an MBBS degree which is required as qualification. Interestingly, no qualification has been mentioned in terms and conditions of the Health Ministry dated August 5, 2013, for the appointment of ED NIH. According to NIH rules the qualification for the ED is MBBS. 

The other nominee does not possess required experience of three years as chief. He also does not possess MBBS degree. When contacted, the nominees said they have the right to be promoted to the post of Executive Director NIH as they possess required qualification and experience.