ISLAMABAD: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the government deny the baseless allegations made by HEC Chairman Tariq Banuri that there is external interference in HEC and university affairs.
The government has stated in a statement that it believes in transparency in the operation of all government departments at all levels, including HEC, universities, and other institutions.
According to the statement, the government has ensured that the education sector, particularly the higher education sector, has received all available resources since taking office. The institutions' autonomy has always been respected. Prime Minister Imran Khan has taken an interest in ensuring that every government department is free to function in accordance with its 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 also states that as far as HEC's funding distribution is concerned, it is put on record that as well known to Banuri since its inception in 2002, HEC has 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."
