BZU academics declare indefinite strike for demands

MULTAN: The Bahauddin Zakariya University Academic Staff Association (BZUASA), Multan general body members, frustrated by the administration’s persistent refusal to address their demands, resorted to action and declared an indefinite strike.

The general body meeting of the BZUASA was held at Jinnah Auditorium on Thursday, attended by teachers and chaired by President Prof Dr Abdul Sattar Malik. Secretary-general Prof Dr Khawar Nawazish mentioned that a month ago, a ten-point charter of demands was presented to the university administration by ASA. The administration showed complete indifference, and no action has been taken to resolve a single issue yet. Considering this situation, the General Body Meeting was called to send a comprehensive message to the administration from the entire community.

Prof Dr Aleem Ahmed Khan expressed disappointment in the ill-administration of BZU, which he felt was trying to run the university like a company. He emphasized that decisions in a university involve various bodies, unlike a company where executive orders suffice. The administration’s ignorance of the University Act and bodies was criticized.

Prof Dr Abdul Quddus Sohaib stated that the administration’s decisions regarding the workload and merging departments would not be accepted. Despite waiting for solutions, the administration did not listen. He warned that problems would not be solved by aligning with the administration but by addressing them directly.

Criticizing the BZU vice-chancellor, he noted the lack of action in replacing a transport officer and the prevalence of corruption in the maintenance wing. He highlighted the need to address financial difficulties through anti-corruption measures rather than burdening teachers.

Prof Dr Ehsan Qadir Bhabha, Prof Dr Asif Yasin, Prof Dr Tahir Ashraf, and Prof Dr Iram Batool Awan voiced concerns about the non-conformity of the selection board, affecting teachers’ promotions. They urged the administration to establish a selection board promptly.

Prof Dr Fahd emphasized the importance of respecting teachers’ contributions and criticized the government’s new pension rules. Prof Dr Iram Batool Awan stressed the significance of teachers and their status within the university, asserting that any action against them would not be accepted.

Prof Dr Umar highlighted issues referring to a circular requiring departments to install electricity meters from their budgets, citing inadequate preparation. The teachers expressed unity in protecting their interests.