Starting today, the non-teaching staff at the University of Karachi (UoK) have initiated a pen-down strike. This action comes after a week-long abstention from evening classes by the teaching faculty, indicating a deepening crisis within the institution.

The decision to indefinitely strike arises from unresolved grievances, including non-payment of leave encashment, reimbursement of medical expenses, and pending remuneration for evening classes spanning over a year. Following a general body meeting at the Chinese Teachers Memorial Auditorium, the Employees’ Welfare Association of KU (EWAKU) and other representative groups announced the strike.

Senior KU teachers anticipate severe disruptions to both academic and administrative operations on campus due to the strike, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with the administration’s handling of employee concerns. This may further prompt the Karachi University Teachers’ Society (KUTS) to consider a complete boycott of academic activities.

Prof. Shah Aliul Qadr, President of KUTS, disclosed that the matter would be discussed in the upcoming general body meeting following the elections for KU senate and syndicate seats.

During the meeting chaired by Irfan Khan, head of the association, non-teaching employees outlined their demands, including payment of leave encashment, release of pending arrears, and approval of promotions for over 600 staff members pending for four years.

Mohammad Shahid, a representative of the association, expressed disappointment over the lack of progress in negotiations with the university administration, highlighting their refusal to disburse funds allocated by the Higher Education Commission for outstanding dues.

Shakeel Gabol, representing another employee group, criticized the administration for exacerbating what he described as the “worst-ever financial crisis” faced by the institution, urging unity among attendees.

Meanwhile, staff members of the Centre of Excellence in Marine Biology (CEMB) continued their strike over unpaid salaries and pensions spanning three months, underscoring the broader financial challenges confronting Karachi University.

Related: UoK to Confer Honorary Doctorate on Iranian President

Beaconhouse National University (BNU) Lahore took a significant step towards enhancing academic and research collaboration between Pakistan and China with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a China Studies Chair.The ceremony marked a milestone in fostering deeper understanding and cooperation between the two nations.

The event, graced by the presence of Honorable Rana Sikandar Hayat, Minister of Education of the Government of Punjab, witnessed the signing of the MoU by His Excellency Zhao Shiren, Consul General of China in Lahore, and Dr. Moeed Yusuf, Vice Chancellor of BNU.

The MoU delineates a comprehensive program of collaboration between Chinese universities, think tanks, and BNU aimed at advancing academic and research endeavors. It seeks to facilitate a nuanced exploration of China-Pakistan interactions, promoting greater understanding and cooperation in various spheres.

Building upon its existing program on the Chinese language, BNU will introduce a dedicated course on Chinese Studies at the School of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (SLASS). This course will offer a comprehensive exploration of Pakistan-China relations, enriching academic offerings and fostering greater cultural understanding.

The signing of the MoU heralds a new chapter in bilateral collaboration, setting the stage for deeper engagement and mutual enrichment between Pakistan and China. It reflects BNU’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for academic excellence and cross-cultural dialogue, paving the way for robust scholarly exchanges and collaboration in the years to come.

Other than BNU students dive into CBD Punjab’s skyline

In a significant development for the advancement of higher education, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC) have forged an agreement to collaborate on initiatives aimed at ensuring the quality and promotion of higher education. This landmark agreement was announced during a joint event titled “Quality Assurance,” hosted by PHEC.
During the event, Executive Secretary of HEC, Prof. Dr. Zia-Ul-Qayyum, and Chairperson of PHEC, Prof. Dr. Shahid Munir, reaffirmed their commitment to this collaborative effort. The event was attended by Vice-Chancellors from 75 public and private universities across Punjab.
Education Minister Mr. Rana Sikander Hayat graced the occasion as a special guest, delivering an address that underscored the government’s commitment to merit-based appointments of vice-chancellors in Punjab universities. He outlined a robust educational vision, emphasizing the implementation of short-term and long-term education reforms, including teacher training initiatives supported by the UK, school upgrades, and solutions for various educational challenges. Additionally, plans were unveiled for the introduction of technical education and modern IT courses for students.
Prof. Dr. Zia-ul-Qayyum highlighted the adoption of innovative methods to elevate university standards for enhanced international competitiveness. Collaboration with provincial authorities was emphasized as a means to implement reforms effectively.
Practical measures are already underway in public sector universities to integrate quality assurance mechanisms into the higher education system, including the establishment of quality enhancement cells.
Prof. Dr. Shahid Munir, Chairperson of PHEC, expressed eagerness to collaborate with HEC to advance higher education. He urged the Government to bolster the higher education budget to align with global standards, stressing the pivotal role of education in maintaining dignity in the modern era. The comparison of Pakistan’s educational budget with that of South Asian countries underscored the need for increased funding in this sector.
Dr. Farkh Naveed, Secretary of Higher Education Department (HED), emphasized the importance of diversifying revenue sources for universities beyond Government budgets. He outlined ongoing efforts to expedite the appointment process for new vice-chancellors in Punjab universities, including the formation of search committees and the implementation of performance monitoring mechanisms.
This collaboration between HEC and PHEC marks a significant step forward in the journey towards enhancing higher education quality and accessibility in Pakistan.

Other than HEC to Refine Transnational Education Policy

Amidst an atmosphere buzzing with excitement and anticipation, Lahore College for Women University (LCWU) played host to the prestigious Trophy Tour of the inaugural Chief Minister Pink Games. Led by the esteemed Professor Dr. Shagufta Naz, Vice Chancellor of the university, the event brought together a diverse array of participants and dignitaries to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie.

Ms. Yasmeen, Director of Sports at the Sports Board Punjab, took center stage as she presented the illustrious trophy to Ms. Sumera Sattar, amidst the presence of renowned international players. The exchange symbolized not just a mere passing of a trophy, but a testament to the unity and friendship forged through the love of sports.

Dr. Aqsa Shabir, Incharge of the Intermediate Section, graciously received the trophy, embodying the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity. With a sense of pride and enthusiasm, she then passed on the trophy to Professor Dr. Uzma Qureshi, the esteemed Dean of the Faculty of Education, who accepted it with reverence and determination.

The occasion was marked by an outpouring of enthusiasm from the players of the Health and Physical Education Department, who showcased their readiness and eagerness to participate in the upcoming 1st CM Pink Games with unwavering energy and passion. Their dedication and spirit served as a shining example of the transformative power of sports in uniting individuals and communities.

As the Trophy Tour came to a close, it left a lasting impression on all those in attendance, inspiring a renewed sense of purpose and determination to excel in the forthcoming games. Through the collective efforts of the university faculty, staff, and students, Lahore College for Women University stood poised to make a significant impact on the sporting landscape, championing the values of teamwork, resilience, and fair play.

Other than LCWU Holds Inspiring Women’s Day Walk

In a celebration of artistic talent and creativity, the Kemcolians’ Arts and Photography Society (KAPS) hosted the 15th All Pakistan Arts and Photography Exhibition on April 24, 2024. The event, held within the esteemed halls of the Ground Floor of Maqbool Ahmad Block, showcased a breathtaking array of over 735 artworks, attracting a diverse crowd of more than 150 participants from across the nation.

Distinguished guests, including Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mahmood Ayyaz King Edward Medical University(KEMU) and esteemed faculty members such as Prof. Dr. Farhana Sajjad, Prof. Dr. Saira Afzal, and Prof. Dr. Abbas Khokhar, graced the occasion with their presence. Their support underscored the university’s commitment to nurturing artistic expression and fostering the holistic development of its students.

The success of the event was a testament to the dedicated efforts of the organizing committee, led by the final-year and fourth-year cabinets of KAPS. Their unwavering commitment and tireless dedication ensured the seamless execution of the exhibition, transforming the university into a vibrant hub of artistic expression and cultural exchange.

Representing a diverse range of themes and styles, the artworks on display captivated the audience and sparked conversations on the power of visual storytelling. From captivating paintings to striking photographs, each piece offered a unique perspective, reflecting the rich tapestry of creativity within Pakistan’s artistic community.

As the curtains drew to a close on the exhibition, it left a lasting impression on all who attended, reaffirming the university’s role as a champion of the arts and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists across the nation.

Other than KEMU, IBA & LUMS nailed this year’s HEC Best University Teacher Award

Islamabad, April 29: Coordinator General COMSTECH, Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary said that COMSTECH has started capacity building programs with Chinese institutions to link OIC world with the Peoples Republic of China. He was briefing Chinese media personnel here at the COMSTECH.

Prof. Choudhary informed that the one of the root causes of lagging behind in S&T is absence of trained researchers and technical personnel’s in various fields of science and technology with emphasis on health. To meet this challenge, the Hunan University of Chinese Medicine and OIC- COMSTECH have joined hands to offer technicians training on various medical and STEM fields for S&T capacity building.

Prof. Choudhary informed that the first phase of this program has two components, technician training program, and Post-Doc study at the Hunan University. He further informed that COMSTECH is in the process of initiating similar programs with Ningbo University and Xinjiang Medical University. COMSTECH has already established a joint program with Huawei Technologies China in the field of cybersecurity.

Program Manager COMSTECH, Ms. Khazima Muazim briefed the audience in detail on the COMSTECH – Hunan University of Chinese Medicine Joint S&T Cooperation. She said that the Hunan University of Chinese Medicine and OIC- COMSTECH have joined hands to offer technicians training on various medical and STEM fields for S&T capacity building. She informed that 13 scholars with diverse educational and professional background from Sudan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Cameron, Egypt, Kazakhstan and Bangladesh have been selected under this program. She informed that special preference has been given to female candidates.

She said that the training program is set to begin in May which encompasses training on NMR, MRI and training in Ethno medicine Innovation and traditional Chinese medicine. Technical visits will also be part of this training program, she said.

Other than COMSTECH Commits Additional Scholarships for Palestine

Emerson University, Multan took a significant stride towards international collaboration as it sealed a promising partnership with the Rubber Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences. The signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) marked the beginning of a journey aimed at fostering research, education, and innovation within the scientific realm.

At the helm of this historic agreement were Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Muhammad Ramzan representing Emerson University, Multan, and Dr. Han Chen from the Rubber Research Institute. Their signatures on the MOU underscored a shared commitment to advancing knowledge and expertise in the scientific domain.

“The essence of this memorandum lies in its potential to expose Emerson University students to cutting-edge research and educational opportunities,” remarked Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ramzan. “By collaborating with the Rubber Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, we aim to ignite a passion for exploration and innovation among our student community.”

Dr. Muhammad Aleem Ashraf, Head of the Department of Biosciences and Technology at Emerson, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the transformative impact of such initiatives. “This collaboration heralds the dawn of a new era in educational excellence,” he said. “It lays the groundwork for a series of contemporary educational   endeavors that will shape the future trajectory of students at Emerson University.”

With the support and cooperation of the Rubber Research Institute, Emerson University envisages a future where students are not only equipped with theoretical knowledge but also empowered to tackle real-world challenges through hands-on research and experiential learning. This partnership stands as a testament to the university’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists and innovators.

Other than Teachers’ Front Bags Two Seats As PU Syndicate Gets New Members

Lahore, April 29: To standardize postgraduate clinical programs of MS, MD, and MDS across various medical universities in Punjab and bolster their international credibility, it has been decided to implement specialty-specific Joint Centralized Admission Tests (JCATs) instead of a common test for all specialties starting from the next induction cycle.

This decision was reached during the second meeting of the Inter-University Board, comprising the Vice-Chancellors of all public sector medical universities in the province, held on April 22. The board also agreed to raise the passing criteria from 60 percent to 75 percent for the test.

A meeting of focal persons from all medical universities was convened on Monday at the University of Health Sciences (UHS) to outline the procedures for conducting specialty-based JCATs for 11 different postgraduate specialties, including anesthesiology, obstetrics and gynecology, ophthalmology, radiology, psychiatry, ENT, medicine and allied, surgery and allied, community medicine, pathology, and dentistry. Chaired by UHS Vice-Chancellor Professor Ahsan Waheed Rathore, it was decided that, following the Inter-University Board’s decision, subject-specific admission tests would be conducted by King Edward Medical University Lahore. However, the syllabi for these tests will be formulated by the Specialty Advisory Committees, comprising faculty members specializing in the relevant fields from all medical universities in the province. These committees will also include faculty members from basic medical sciences to incorporate specific topics into the JCAT syllabi. The committees are expected to finalize the syllabi within two weeks. UHS being the biggest stakeholder with largest number of postgraduate trainees registered with it, is steering the process. Once prepared, the syllabi will undergo review by the syndicates of the medical universities for approval.

Addressing this initiative, UHS VC Professor Ahsan Waheed Rathore emphasized that the goal of conducting specialty-based JCATs is to elevate the standards of MD, MS, and MDS degrees offered by the universities and pave the way for their international recognition. He pointed out that even the FCPS part one examination, serving as an entry point into the diploma, is subject-specific. Therefore, he questioned the rationale behind having a common entry test for a master’s degree program across all specialties, emphasizing the importance of producing specialists. He reiterated UHS’s commitment to revamping these programs with the motto “Standardize Training, Standardize Assessment.”

Other than UHS faculty member honoured

Commander 11 Corps Hassan Azhar Hayat stood tall, a beacon of pride as he inaugurated the state-of-the-art sports complex at the University of Peshawar. It was a momentous occasion, symbolizing the strong bond between the Pakistan Army and the university’s students.

Amidst a gathering of esteemed guests including the university’s deans, directors, and registrar, as well as eager players from diverse backgrounds, the ceremony commenced with an air of anticipation.

The highlight of the inauguration was an electrifying exhibition match, where the prowess of athletes from different divisions dazzled the spectators. From the thunderous roar of the crowd to the breathtaking displays of skill on the field, it was a testament to the power of sports in unifying communities.

For the University of Peshawar, this event wasn’t just about inaugurating a sports complex; it was about embracing a culture of sportsmanship and camaraderie. The facility, adorned with cutting-edge amenities and infrastructure, aimed to serve as a hub for nurturing talent and promoting physical well-being among students.

In the days to come, the sports complex would become a vibrant arena, hosting a myriad of events and tournaments that would ignite the competitive spirit among participants. It would be a place where dreams would take flight, where friendships would be forged, and where memories would be etched into the annals of time.

As the ceremony drew to a close, expressions of gratitude filled the air, directed towards the Pakistan Army for their unwavering support and boundless generosity. The university faculty and administration pledged to uphold the legacy of this remarkable gift, ensuring that it would continue to inspire generations of students to strive for excellence, both on and off the field.

Other than Peshawar University Offers Fellowship Program on Peaceful Co-existence

The University of Punjab (PU) Department of Archaeology, in conjunction with Rational Dialogue, convened a seminar focused on “Lahore’s Heritage,” shedding light on the modern heritage and cultural history of the historic city. The event, held at Punjab University, attracted notable figures including Deputy Director of Punjab Archaeology Muhammad Iqbal Manj, Chairman of PU Department of Archaeology Dr. Muhammad Hameed, historian Anjum Rehmani, Talha Shafiq, former Director of Lahore Museum Muhammad Usman, Architect Dr. Rizwan Azeem, along with faculty members and students.

In his address, Deputy Director Iqbal Manj underscored the imperative nature of preserving cultural heritage, directing attention towards forthcoming programs dedicated to this cause. Stressing the significance of understanding and safeguarding cultural heritage, he assured full cooperation from his department in these endeavors.

Dr. Muhammad Hameed reiterated the commitment of PU’s Department of Archaeology in advocating for the preservation of Pakistan’s cultural heritage. He emphasized the department’s resolve to continue playing a pivotal role in raising awareness about the importance of preservation and announced plans for similar collaborative activities in the future.

During the seminar, Dr. Anjum Rehmani and Talha Shafiq delved into the historical significance of the old Ravi Lahore and Jalianwala Bagh, respectively, providing valuable insights into these cherished landmarks. Architect Dr. Rizwan Azeem offered recommendations for the preservation of Lahore’s heritage, emphasizing proactive measures to ensure its longevity and relevance in the modern era.

Muhammad Usman, Former Director of Lahore Museum, lauded the efforts of Punjab Archaeology and commended the organizers for hosting an enlightening seminar. His words of encouragement served to motivate further initiatives aimed at preserving Lahore’s rich cultural tapestry.

The seminar served as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders invested in safeguarding Lahore’s heritage. With a shared commitment to preserving the city’s cultural legacy, the participants departed with renewed vigor to contribute towards its conservation and promotion for generations to come.

Related: PU Library marks World Book and Copyright Day