The Academic Staff Association of COMSATS University Islamabad (ASA-CUI) has raised serious concerns over the prolonged delay in the appointment of COMSATS rector for the university. This delay, they argue, has cast a shadow over the effective functioning of the institution and has created uncertainty among both the faculty and students. The association has called for a transparent and expeditious selection process, stressing that any further postponement could have long-lasting detrimental effects on the university’s reputation and operational efficiency. The ASA-CUI’s concerns underline the critical role that leadership plays in maintaining academic standards and institutional stability.
During a recent meeting chaired by Dr. Muhammad Jadoon Khan, the association discussed the potential adverse impacts of the delay of the appointment of COMSATS rector. The absence of a permanent rector, they noted, has resulted in a leadership vacuum that has hindered decision-making and stalled various strategic initiatives. The association expressed confidence in the elected members of the university senate to navigate this challenging period with integrity and to play a constructive and positive role in the appointment process. However, they also emphasized the importance of swift action to avoid further erosion of trust within the university community.
The ASA-CUI highlighted several long-standing issues that require immediate attention, including the dissolution of the ad-hoc setup, the establishment of a selection board for all cadres, and the revision of pay scales to reflect the current economic realities. They stressed that these issues especially the appointment of COMSATS rector, if left unresolved, could lead to a decline in the quality of education and contribute to the ongoing brain drain from the institution. The association urged the administration to prioritize these matters to safeguard the university’s future.
In a related development, the COMSATS University Senate has made a significant move by recommending three highly qualified candidates for the appointment of COMSATS rector. The nominees, Dr. Shahid Khattak, Dr. Shahid Munir, and Dr. Asghar Zaidi, were selected based on merit and have been ranked accordingly. These names will now be forwarded to the president of Pakistan for the final selection. The association expressed hope that the president will make a decision that aligns with the best interests of the university and its stakeholders.
The situation at COMSATS University serves as a reminder of the importance of timely and transparent leadership appointments in educational institutions. The ASA-CUI’s demands reflect the broader concerns of the academic community regarding governance, stability, and the need for a clear direction. As the university awaits the president’s decision for the appointment of COMSATS rector, the association and the broader university community remain hopeful that the new rector will bring the necessary leadership to address the pressing challenges and guide the institution toward a prosperous future.
