The Karachi University Teachers Society (KUTS) has launched an indefinite strike today, shedding light on critical issues plaguing the institution's administration and finances.
This strike, endorsed by the KUTS, is set to continue until their concerns are effectively addressed, according to KUTS Secretary Dr. Faizan-ul-Hassan Naqvi.
Among the prominent issues brought to the forefront is the failure to approve Karachi University's budget for the past four years. This neglect has had far-reaching consequences, severely impacting the quality of academic and research activities within the university.
Moreover, teachers involved in evening programs claim they have not received their arrears for a staggering year and a half. Permanent faculty members have also reportedly been denied the salary increments promised in the provincial government's budget announcement four months ago.
Adding to the discontent, visiting faculty members are allegedly paid a meager Rs. 480 per lecture after deductions, instead of the promised Rs. 600. Even this reduced payment is said to be inconsistently disbursed.
The deteriorating state of Karachi University's infrastructure has also raised concerns, signaling administrative mismanagement. This decline in facilities has led to a worrying trend wherein students are increasingly choosing private universities over the public sector due to persistent issues.
The KUTS recently convened a general body meeting, passing a resolution to boycott all academic activities at the university until further notice.
They have also expressed solidarity with the ongoing strike by teachers in the evening program, which began on September 14. In an attempt to seek resolution, the KUTS has called upon the Sindh governor and the chief minister to take immediate notice of the crises and establish a commission to investigate their root causes.
KU administration's response
Meanwhile, in response to the ongoing strike and disruptions in university activities, the University of Karachi administration has issued orders to ensure the timely attendance of employees.
According to a notification issued by the University of Karachi Registrar Professor Dr. Abdul Waheed, employees, including teachers, are required to be present in their respective departments from Monday to Friday between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM. Additionally, there will be a break for prayer and food from 1:00 to 2:00 on Monday to Thursday, with a longer break on Friday lasting one and a half hours.
The directive also emphasizes the attendance of all Deans, Directors, Department Chairmen, and Heads of Administrative Affairs subordinate staff.
As the strike continues and tensions rise, the fate of Karachi University's academic operations hangs in the balance, with hopes resting on the government's intervention to resolve the crisis.
