Dr. Hoodbhoy’s Critique of Pakistani Universities
Over the past few days, there’s been a buzz on social media about columns penned by the esteemed social worker Dr. Pervez Hoodbhoy. These columns, written some time ago, extensively critique Pakistan’s higher education system. They seem to portray teaching in Pakistani universities as a dire profession, almost likening it to associating with Pablo Escobar. For instance, one of Dr. Hoodbhoy’s columns is titled ‘Pakistani Professor Mafia’.
In these columns, Dr. Hoodbhoy aims at various aspects, including international ranking agencies that allegedly err in their assessments. He questions whether the blame for an incorrect ranking of Quaid-e-Azam University lies with the university or the assessing agency.
Regarding the ranking of top scientists, where 81 Pakistani professors are listed among over 15,000 individuals, Dr. Hoodbhoy suggests unethical practices, casting a shadow on the entire higher education system. However, he overlooks two significant points: firstly, the global nature of this ranking, where a small fraction has ties to Pakistan, raising questions about singling out Pakistani universities. Secondly, these 81 individuals don’t represent the entirety of the academic community; their inclusion can’t be generalized.
Dr. Hoodbhoy also critiques professors’ publication methods, alleging unethical tricks to boost article numbers. Yet, similar practices are observed in academia worldwide, not just in Pakistan.
The piece further delves into the financial struggle of academics to publish in reputable international journals, often resorting to collaborations for coverage of publication fees. This practice is deemed unethical, but it involves mutual participation from both Pakistani and foreign academics.
Acknowledging flaws in Pakistan’s university education system, the writer emphasizes these are not exclusive but echo global trends. Reforming education systems globally or granting autonomy to Pakistani universities could be viable solutions instead of solely targeting Pakistani institutions.
Highlighting the global acceptance of certain practices, the writer challenges the selective criticism of Pakistani academics and urges scrutiny of host universities’ ethical standards worldwide. If Dr. Hoodbhoy’s critique aligns with this approach, the writer would support it, but not if it singles out Pakistani researchers unfairly.
Ultimately, the focus should be on creating a fairer, more ethical academic environment globally rather than unfairly singling out Pakistani universities for criticism.
It is a Opinion by eduapknews.pk