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.
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