Islamabad:Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Associations (FAPUASA) has welcomed the appointment of Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar as the Chairperson, Higher Education Commission (HEC), for a period of two years following the official notification issued by Ministry of Education and Professional Training here Friday.
In a statement, the federation considered the appointment as a positive development particularly after a prolonged period of uncertainty and administrative vacuum at the HEC which adversely affected policy continuity and decision-making in the higher education sector.
Congratulates Prof Niaz on assuming this important national responsibility, FAPUASA expressed hope that his “extensive academic and administrative experience” will contribute to restoring stability, transparency and confidence in the higher education system. The federation is optimistic that HEC will adopt a consultative and proactive approach to addressing the longstanding and pressing issues faced by universities and the academic community.
FAPUASA urged the new Chairperson to prioritise the resolution of critical matters including the implementation of the Basic Pay Scale (PBS) promotion policy and to address the Tenure Track System (TTS) salary issues.
The federation also expected renewed focus on improving governance, ensuring adequate and sustainable funding for higher education, strengthening faculty development programmes and promoting quality research and innovation. The teachers elected representative body believed that meaningful progress in these areas is essential for strengthening the higher education sector and for enabling universities to effectively contribute to national development.
FAPUASA looked forward to constructive engagement with the new HEC leadership while remaining committed to working collaboratively for the advancement of higher education and the welfare of the academic community in Pakistan.
