Islamabad:Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Associations (FAPUASA) has expressed grave concern over the continued neglect of critical issues faced by university teachers across Pakistan.
In a statement, it said despite repeated engagements with the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and relevant government bodies, key matters including the restoration of 25% tax rebate, formulation of a fair BPS promotion policy and revision of Tenure Track System (TTS) salaries remain unresolved. Same is the case with incorporating increases in salaries/ pensions in recurring grant from which any new increase is paid. The amount is frozen at the level of 2018.
FAPUASA leadership held several meetings with HEC to seek concrete progress on these long-standing demands. In a meeting with the Acting Chairperson, HEC, a clear commitment was made that the BPS promotion policy would be discussed with vice chancellors to develop an amicable, transparent and mutually acceptable framework. However, no meaningful progress or formal update was shared since then, causing growing frustration among the academic community.
The issue of TTS salaries was discussed thoroughly in joint meetings involving HEC, representatives of the Planning Commission and FAPUASA. After detailed deliberations, a consensus document was agreed upon by all three stakeholders. It was subsequently decided that HEC would convene a follow-up meeting with FAPUASA to brief the federation on the final recommendations prepared by HEC. Regrettably, despite the lapse of considerable time, no such meeting was convened, reflecting serious institutional apathy.
FAPUASA strongly demands the immediate restoration of the 25% tax rebate for university teachers, implementation of a just, transparent and workable BPS promotion policy and a justified salary increase for TTS faculty. It is alarming that TTS teachers’ salaries was not revised for the past four years, despite unprecedented inflation and continuous depreciation of the national currency, which severely eroded their purchasing power and professional standing.
FAPUASA has warned that “continued indifference by the government and HEC toward these legitimate demands will leave the academic community with no option but to respond decisively.” The federation is actively considering a nationwide protest against these unjust and discriminatory policies.
If the demands are not addressed within a reasonable timeframe, FAPUASA will announce a nationwide university closure and take to the streets to secure the due rights of university teachers across Pakistan. While FAPUASA remains committed to dialogue and constructive engagement, it will not compromise on the rights, dignity and professional well-being of the academic community.
