Sindh Considers Raising Retirement Age for University Teachers

Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah has urged the reduction of non-teaching staff recruitment at public universities to alleviate financial pressures, following warnings from vice chancellors about private institutions poaching experienced faculty with higher pay scales. This call emerged from a meeting chaired by Shah with the vice chancellors of 32 public universities in the province, focusing on financial and administrative challenges, academic standards, research activities, infrastructure, and student facilities.

Acknowledging the challenges public universities face, Shah stated that the provincial government aims to collaborate with university administrations to find practical solutions. He emphasized that the government has allocated Rs44.46 billion in grants to Sindh’s universities for the current fiscal year. However, pension liabilities have become a significant challenge, leading Shah to propose raising the retirement age for university professors from 60 to 65 years.

This recommendation will be submitted to the provincial cabinet, and the government will seek federal assistance for matters under their purview.

VCs expressed difficulties in retaining qualified faculty due to competition from private universities offering better salaries and the challenges of faculty leaving for overseas opportunities. Issues such as pension liabilities, high electricity bills, and shortages in faculty and human resources were cited as contributors to the financial strain faced by universities.

Shah stressed the importance of engaging university alumni more effectively in institutional development and encouraged VCs to submit research proposals for potential financial support from the government. He also advocated for better accreditation of research findings and stronger industry links to ensure the practical application of academic work.

Moreover, Shah called for comprehensive research and feasibility studies before approving new university campuses, requiring institutions to assess student potential and develop clear policy guidelines to ensure academic justifications and financial sustainability.