The Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS) has expressed serious concern over reports suggesting that the International Centre for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) at the University of Karachi may be handed over to private individuals without adequate justification or adherence to legal procedures.
In a letter addressed to Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, PAS President and Distinguished National Professor Dr Kauser Abdullah Malik warned that such a move could jeopardize one of the country’s leading scientific institutions.
Dr Malik noted that ICCBS enjoys international recognition for its research contributions, and its scientists have earned numerous civil awards. He added that professionals trained at the ICCBS are serving in universities and research organizations across Pakistan, highlighting the centre’s pivotal role in strengthening national science and technology.
According to the letter, altering ICCBS’s legal status or separating it from the University of Karachi may lead to risks including declining standards and susceptibility to corruption. The PAS president emphasized that the private sector currently lacks the capacity and experience to manage advanced research and training institutions that do not operate on a profit model.
He urged the Sindh government to retain the ICCBS under the University of Karachi and address any governance or management concerns through constructive reforms. The Academy also offered its full support in resolving related issues.
