Senate committee has recommended that 223 Islamabad teachers who passed the FPSC exam be regularized
In Islamabad, the Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training received updates indicating progress in the regularization of teachers. Out of 137 notifications issued, 223 teachers who passed the FPSC examination await cabinet approval for regularization. The committee, chaired by Senator Irfan Siddiqui, was briefed on this during a session held at the Parliament House.
The discussion encompassed Senator Sadia Abbasi’s concern in the Senate session regarding the absence of a structured service system and promotion policies for university teachers in BPS grades. Notably, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) is actively working on this issue. Senator Siddiqui urged HEC officials to conclude their work by January 15, 2024, presenting a comprehensive report on the proposed “Uniform Service Structure.”
The Acting Vice-Chancellor of the Federal Urdu University highlighted challenges in salary disbursements and proposed relocating the university’s principal seat to Islamabad. Financial constraints have led to only 40% of salary payments being fulfilled. Expressing concern, Senator Siddiqui directed the HEC Chairman to address legal aspects in collaboration with the Ministry.
The committee expressed opposition to relocating the principal seat, emphasizing the need to navigate legal intricacies. The HEC Chairman attributed financial challenges to malpractices in university administration and underscored the government’s inadequate grant to the HEC.
In discussions on private educational institutions, concerns were raised about the scarcity of qualified teachers, unjustified fee increments, and insufficient salaries for employees. The committee learned that private institutions can only raise fees by a maximum of five percent annually, as per a High Court decision. Senator Siddiqui tasked the regulatory authority to present a detailed report in the next meeting on actions taken to improve teacher training and regulate these institutions.
Additionally, the committee addressed the President PTA’s petition regarding facilities for physically handicapped children in educational institutions. The HEC Chairman assured the installation of special ramps in universities and steps taken to provide necessary facilities during exams and classes. Senator Siddiqui emphasized the necessity for enhanced facilities in schools, directing further actions after considering recommendations from the President of PTA.
Senators Fawzia Arshad, Falak Naz, Engr Rukhsana Zuberi, Saadia Abbasi, Mushtaq Ahmed, along with senior officials from HEC and the Federal Ministry of Education, actively participated in the committee meeting.