University teachers across Sindh go on strike, halting academic activities
Academic activities at numerous public-sector universities in Sindh came to a standstill on Thursday as teachers initiated a strike in response to the provincial government’s decision to appoint bureaucrats as vice chancellors and teachers hiring on a contractual basis.
The strike, called by the Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Association (FAPUASA) just a day prior, affected over 20 universities, including Karachi University, Sindh University, and Mehran University of Engineering and Technology.
Dr Ikhtiar Ghumro, the Fapuasa’s Sindh chapter head, stated that the strike would continue until their demands are met.
Teachers have demanded the restoration of university autonomy and the withdrawal of amendments to the Sindh Universities Act concerning vice chancellor appointments.
Dr Ghumro expressed frustration over the “lack of response” from the Sindh Higher Education Commission and the secretary of the universities and boards department, prompting the strike action.
At Karachi University, Dr Mohsin Ali, leader of the Karachi University Teachers’ Society, emphasized the need for immediate government funding for universities facing financial crises and called for respect for university autonomy.
Meanwhile, at Sindh Madressatul Islam University, teachers echoed concerns regarding the proposed bureaucratic appointments.
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Support for the teachers’ strike has emerged from various student organisations and political groups, criticising the government’s plans and advocating for the protection of higher education in Sindh.
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