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Aftab Maken
ISLAMABAD: The federal government has formally initiated a competitive and open process for the appointment of a new Chairman for the Higher Education Commission (HEC). This decision unequivocally puts an end to any further extensions for the current chairperson, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, whose tenure has been a subject of legal challenge.
The shift towards a transparent, competitive, and merit-based selection comes amidst increasing scrutiny and legal challenges surrounding the previous extension granted to Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed.
A writ petition filed in the Islamabad High Court specifically argued that the HEC Ordinance, 2002, permits only one extension in tenure for the Chairman, a point that has gained considerable traction among academic circles and legal experts.
The existing ordinance explicitly states that “In no case the Chairperson and members shall be eligible for re-appointment for more than one similar term,” leaving no room for subsequent extensions or continuance beyond a second term.
To ensure a rigorous and impartial selection process, a formal eight-member search committee has been officially notified. This high-powered committee is tasked with shortlisting and recommending the most suitable candidates to lead the HEC.
The primary objective is to appoint a Chairman who can inject effective leadership, uphold good governance principles, and introduce visionary reforms to significantly improve the landscape of higher education and research across Pakistan.
The committee is chaired by the Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, signaling the government’s commitment at the highest level to this crucial appointment. Other distinguished members of the committee include:
Minister of State for Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar: Her inclusion underscores the governmental emphasis on this process.
Arif Saeed: A prominent figure whose involvement brings a diverse perspective to the selection.
Salman Akhtar: Another key member, expected to contribute to the robust evaluation of candidates.
Secretary of Apex Committee Jehanzaib Khan: His presence highlights the strategic importance of this appointment for national development.
Dr. Anjum Halai, Provost, Aga Khan University: An experienced academic, bringing valuable insights from a leading educational institution.
Dr. Muhammad Naseem Qaisrani, Provost, Aga Khan University: Another representative from a prestigious university, ensuring academic rigor in the selection.
Nadeem Mehmood, Federal Secretary for Education and Professional Training: Who will also serve as the committee’s Secretary, ensuring proper documentation and procedural adherence.
This concerted effort by the federal government is widely viewed as a pivotal step towards revitalizing the HEC. The emphasis on transparency and meritocracy in the appointment of its leadership is crucial, given the HEC’s indispensable role in shaping the future trajectory of higher education, academic standards, and scientific research within Pakistan.
The hope is that this new approach will lead to the selection of a dynamic and capable leader who can navigate the complexities of the higher education sector and propel it towards global competitiveness and excellence.
The impending appointment is eagerly anticipated by stakeholders across the country, as it holds the potential to usher in a new era for Pakistani universities and research institutions.
