PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has taken swift action to address the ongoing vice-chancellor vacancy issue in public universities by activating the search committee on an emergency basis.
A meeting chaired by the caretaker Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Syed Arshad Hussain Shah, focused on reforms in the higher education sector and resulted in the decision to expedite the appointment process.
The Chief Minister directed the relevant authorities to complete the membership of the search committee within a week. He emphasized that the selection of vice-chancellors should prioritize administrative capabilities, merit, and other essential qualifications. He also stressed the importance of long-term solutions to address the challenges faced by universities, including improving governance and financial self-reliance.
To align research priorities with modern market demands, the Chief Minister instructed the establishment of a dedicated committee headed by the caretaker minister for higher education. This committee will be tasked with finalizing the decisions and suggestions made during the meeting. The Chief Minister also set a one-week deadline for finalizing the action plan.
The government’s prompt action to fill the vice-chancellor positions and implement reforms signals a commitment to strengthening the higher education sector in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. By prioritizing administrative competence, merit, and financial independence, the government aims to ensure the long-term success of public universities.
