IHC Orders HEC to Finalize BPS Promotion Policy Within 15 Days

News Desk 

Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday directed the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to finalize and submit its long-pending promotion policy for Basic Pay Scale (BPS) faculty within 15 days, marking a significant development in the All Pakistan Universities BPS Teachers Association’s (APUBTA) struggle for a defined service structure.

Justice Muhsin Akhtar Kiyani issued the order while hearing APUBTA’s petition seeking formulation of a career progression policy for BPS faculty members across Pakistani universities.

During the proceedings, HEC’s representative, Director General Nasir Shah Khattak, informed the court that work was underway on drafting a promotion policy. However, the judge expressed displeasure over the prolonged delay, noting that the lack of a clear promotion framework had adversely affected thousands of teachers.

Justice Kiyani remarked that career advancement was a fundamental right of all faculty members, adding that improved service structures would not only raise their status but also enhance their financial well-being. In a sharp observation, he noted that if the commission felt “guilty” for delaying their career growth, it should consider compensating teachers with a monthly bonus to offset rising living costs.

The judge also highlighted HEC’s repeated reference to “our TTS faculty,” questioning why the same ownership was not extended to BPS faculty—a comment that drew laughter from the courtroom.

APUBTA’s counsel, Advocate Karim Kundi, argued that under Section 10(1)(q) of the HEC Ordinance, it was the commission’s statutory duty to frame such a policy, which it had avoided since its inception. APUBTA General Secretary Dr. Imtiaz informed the court that a draft policy had already been signed by the HEC DG and endorsed by finance officials.

Directing HEC to present its progress and formal approval of the draft within 15 days after the appointment of the new HEC chairman—expected next week—the court adjourned the hearing.

APUBTA welcomed the court’s order and thanked the large number of teachers who attended the proceedings to demonstrate solidarity with the cause.