Islamabad: HEC (The Higher Education Commission) and the government refute the unfounded allegations leveled by HEC Chairman Tariq Banuri that there is external interference in affairs of HEC as well as universities.
In a statement, it has been clarified that the government believes in transparency in the functioning of all Government Departments at all levels, be it HEC, universities, or any other Institution.
The statement says that, since the Government took office, it has been ensured that the Education Sector, and particularly the Higher Education Sector provides all available resources. The Autonomy of the Institutions has always been respected. The Prime Minister has himself taken interest in ensuring that every Government Department is free to function as per its defined mandate. “Such unsubstantiated blanket assertions from Banuri are “inappropriate and irresponsible,” the statement said.
“For the appointment of Vice-Chancellor or any other officer in the universities, there are set rules and all appointments are made on merit while following the laid down procedure. Similarly, for overseeing administrative affairs of Universities, there are bodies like Syndicate and Senate that ensure implementation of policies in letter and spirit.” It states that as far as HEC’s funding and distribution, it is on record and in the knowledge Of Mr. Banuri. Since its inception in 2002, HEC has had a funding formula for disbursement of funds to Higher Education Institutions. Likewise, all development projects of the Higher Education sector are duly approved by respective forums like CDWP, ECNEC, etc, and the process involves thorough planning before any project is approved and executed. “Whether it is the establishment of a University in the PM House or any other project, all projects are being planned to keep in view the national interest and by following all relevant rules and regulations.”
