FAPUASA Sindh Protests Govt Amendments with Academic Boycott

News Desk

Karachi: Faculty members from public universities across Sindh observed a two-hour academic boycott on Tuesday, in response to the unilateral amendments introduced by the Sindh government in the Sindh Universities and Institutes (Amendment) Act.

The Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Associations (FAPUASA) Sindh Chapter led the protest against the move, which they claim threatens academic autonomy and compromises the meritocratic foundation of higher education by allowing bureaucrats to be appointed as Vice Chancellors (VCs).

For weeks, faculty members have been marking “Black Day” at their respective institutions while ensuring academic activities continue uninterrupted. However, today’s academic boycott served as a strong symbolic rejection of the government’s controversial decision.

FAPUASA Sindh Chapter members argue that placing non-academic administrators in leadership positions undermines the credibility and independence of higher education institutions.

Faculty Leaders Speak Out

Dr Akhtiar Ali Ghumro, President of FAPUASA Sindh Chapter, condemned the amendments, stating: “These changes directly undermine academic freedom. Appointing bureaucrats as Vice Chancellors will politicize universities, erode meritocracy, and endanger the future of our students.

We are committed to shielding students from academic disruption, but we cannot remain silent against policies that threaten the integrity of higher education.”

FAPUASA Sindh Chapter’s General Secretary, Abdul Rahman Nagraj, commended the faculty members for their unity and active participation. He highlighted that the overwhelming support for today’s boycott is a testament to the academic community’s dedication to preserving institutional autonomy and educational standards.

Next Steps in the Protest Movement

FAPUASA Sindh Chapter has outlined a series of ongoing and future measures to intensify their protest while minimizing academic disruption:

Wearing black armbands during lectures as a sign of resistance.

Organizing peaceful rallies and press briefings.

Engaging stakeholders in discussions to seek a resolution.

Exploring legal and constitutional avenues for challenging the amendments.

Convening a General Body Meeting to determine the next phase of action.

Holding a demonstration outside the Sindh Assembly Building after Eid-ul-Fitr.

FAPUASA Sindh Chapter has urged the Sindh government to immediately repeal the amendments and initiate constructive dialogue with academic stakeholders.

The association also called upon civil society, media representatives, and students to stand in solidarity with the academic community in defending the future of education in Sindh.