The recent appointment of Retired Professor Nusrat Idrees to the Syndicate of Karachi University (UoK) by the Vice-Chancellor has ignited a storm of controversy within the university community. The decision has prompted criticism from faculty members and individuals associated with Karachi University, who cite various reasons for their discontent.
Traditionally, the appointment of a senior and experienced individual to the Syndicate is considered a merit-based decision. However, the selection of Retired Professor Nusrat Idrees has raised eyebrows due to her comparatively limited experience. The controversy is rooted in her appointment under a clause in the 1972/2018 Karachi University Act, which mandates the Vice Chancellor to appoint a principal from an affiliated or constituent college as a member. Despite the availability of other highly experienced candidates, the decision to appoint Prof. Nusrat has been met with disapproval, with the Sindh Professors and Lecturers Association (SPLA) openly condemning the Vice Chancellor’s choice.
Another point of contention revolves around the affiliation of the Awaz Institute of Media Sciences (AIMS) with Karachi University. The Affiliation Committee, responsible for reporting to the KU Academic Council, faced challenges regarding the standards met by AIMS.
During the Academic Council session on October 14, 2022, the Chair of the Affiliation Committee presented a report allowing AIMS admissions for specific programs for only one year, contingent upon the improvement of college conditions. Prof. Nusrat Idrees, who previously served as the Dean of Social Sciences and was a member of the Affiliation Committee, played a role in facilitating the affiliation of AIMS. The controversy deepens as admissions at AIMS commenced in January 2023, prompting questions about the approval process and the subsequent appointment of Prof. Nusrat to the Syndicate.
The approval of AIMS affiliation in October 2022, while Prof. Nusrat Idrees held positions in both the Dean and Affiliation Committee member, raises concerns about a potential conflict of interest. Despite objections and inquiries within the Syndicate, details regarding the one-year condition and re-inspection report remain elusive.
The significant influence of Retired Prof. Nusrat Idrees is evident in her appointment to the Syndicate, despite the ongoing criticism. Furthermore, her subsequent nomination to the Advanced Studies and Research Board (ASRB) has raised eyebrows, as it is considered illegal under the Karachi University Act. According to the Act, ASRB positions should be held by three University Professors, excluding Deans, appointed by the Syndicate. Given Prof. Nusrat Idrees’ retirement in February 2023, she is no longer eligible for this role.
In light of these controversial developments, there is a growing demand for a thorough inquiry. Concerns about the potential influence of Prof. Nusrat Idrees within the university have prompted calls for an impartial team of academic experts, appointed by the Chief Minister or Chancellor, to conduct a comprehensive investigation into these matters.
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