Sindh has passed a law that allows bureaucrats to become Vice Chancellors (VCs) of universities. This decision has been met with criticism from the academic community, with many arguing that VCs should be appointed based on academic merit, not bureaucratic experience.

Under the new law, bureaucrats and civil servants with 20 years of experience, including 10 years of managerial experience, are eligible to apply for the position of VC. The age limit for the post of VC has also been lowered from 65 to 62 years.

The Sindh government has defended the decision, saying that it will bring in fresh perspectives and management expertise to the universities. However, critics argue that this move will politicize the education sector and undermine the autonomy of universities.

The Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Association (FAPUASA) has strongly condemned the decision, saying that it will destroy the higher education sector in Sindh. The association has threatened to protest the decision if it is not reversed.

It’s worth noting that the new law does not apply to engineering universities, where only PhD holders with an academic background can become VCs.