ISLAMABAD (Khyber Mail): The Supreme Court of Pakistan will take up the long-standing case concerning the appointment of vice chancellors across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) universities on April 15. A three-member bench, headed by Justice Shahid Waheed, is set to preside over the proceedings.
The case highlights a severe administrative crisis, as 25 of KP’s 34 universities have been operating without permanent vice chancellors for over two years. Despite previous directives from the Supreme Court requiring appointments within six months, these key leadership positions remain unfilled, leading to widespread mismanagement and financial instability. Students face significant delays in getting their degrees attested, while the leadership vacuum has reportedly enabled corruption and turned universities into platforms for political influence.
The issue stems from inconsistent government actions over the years. In 2022, the PTI government advertised the positions but failed to conduct interviews. The caretaker government later finalized the interview process and shortlisted candidates after obtaining approval from the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). However, the incoming PTI government in mid-2024 rejected these recommendations and re-advertised the positions, triggering legal disputes. Subsequent rulings by the Peshawar High Court favored the petitioners, but the matter remains unresolved.
The situation is especially dire for universities in conflict-prone areas of KP, which are struggling with financial crises and administrative instability. Faculty members have raised concerns about inadequate funding and a lack of transparent processes, while vacant vice chancellor positions have reportedly created opportunities for miscreants to exploit hostels in certain regions.
Education experts and faculty hope the Supreme Court’s hearing will lead to an equitable and merit-based resolution. A decision in favor of timely and transparent appointments is anticipated to restore stability and improve the future of higher education in KP. Further updates are expected following the April 15 hearing.