LAHORE: (Saturday, December 01, 2012): The Vice Chancellors of all the public sector universities of Punjab met today (Saturday) at University of Punjab to review the overall issues of academics, governance and research in the universities. The Vice Chancellors noted that the universities have shown tremendous progress in the last decade and appreciated the role of Higher Education Commission (HEC) in generating momentum for and supporting a culture of research and development in the universities, both at the national and international levels.

During the meeting, the Vice Chancellors expressed their concern over the recent developments with regard to HEC and expressed their apprehension that the autonomy and sanctity of HEC is being undermined, and that it would result in a serious setback to the progress of the universities in Pakistan. The VCs discussed in detail the recent amendments, in Acts of all the public sector Universities of Punjab. The VCs also felt that the amendments had been made without consulting the Vice Chancellors despite earlier assurances. The Vice Chancellors noted that these amendments undermined the Chief Minister’s vision and policies to promote merit and to enhance the autonomy and sanctity of the Universities in accordance with international standards and practices. The Vice Chancellors expressed the urgent need to call on the Chief Minister and to apprise him of the adverse consequences of these amendments with regard to the autonomy, smooth functioning, and the academic and research culture of the universities.