Karachi University tells students to comply with ethical norms while using social media

A new code of ethics issued by the University of Karachi on Thursday restrains students from what it describes as activities “against the ideology of Pakistan and Islam”.

The guidelines read that students have no right to interfere in the varsity’s administrative activities. “There should be no activity against the ideology of Islam and Pakistan, or national security and integrity, and no interference in the varsity’s administrative activities,” says the statement issued by KU Student Adviser Dr Syed Asim Ali.

“The social media activities of the students must be in accordance with ethical norms that must not provoke regional and sectarian divide,” says Dr Ali. The varsity’s student adviser says the students must keep a strict check on “such external individuals who come to the varsity and get involved in non-academic activities”.

Dr Ali warns that smoking and use and sale of gutka, paan and chhalia are strictly prohibited and “will be dealt with as per the law if anyone is found involved. No unauthorised use of the varsity’s property is allowed including transport.”

The adviser instructs all students to respect the teachers and the non-teaching staff and to cooperate with the security staff for ensuring discipline. “Graffiti and posters on walls are also prohibited.”

Also, he adds, strict action will be taken against anyone found carrying arms or ammunition or explosive material on the campus. “All students should follow the university rules and regulations, including maintaining at least 75 per cent attendance in classes.”

He says any programme in the varsity will need a five-day prior written permission from the relevant chairman and department, and all co-curricular activities must be held with the guidance of the departmental student advisers.

Students are also directed not to enter the residential area of the campus. “Students found in violation of the university code of conduct will be dealt with in accordance with the university’s rules and regulations.”