President orders changing policy and procedure for appointing VCs to Sindh varsities

President Asif Zardari has issued directives for changing the policy and procedure for the appointment of vice chancellors to the universities of Sindh.

In a letter written by his secretary Shakeel Malik to Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on a direction of the president of Pakistan, it is said that It has been observed that these positions have predominantly been filled by candidates from within the province.

The president has desired that the process of recruitment of vice chancellors be made more open and competitive for the benefit of young generation. According to the letter, this process should adhere to international standards and accreditations on all Pakistan basis. Moreover, to attract top-tier global talent, the engagement of international faculty may be encouraged, along with the offering of market-based competitive salary packages and facilities that commensurate international remuneration standards.

Malik said in the letter: “I am directed to request you for implementation of these guidelines/directive of the Hon'ble President of Pakistan for reforms in higher education sector for the best interest of the public.”

In connection with the recruitment of vice chancellors in Sindh, the domicile of Sindh is asked from the candidate, while the age limit of the vice chancellor is also 62 years, while there is no limitation of domicile in other provinces, while the age limit is 65 years.