A major controversy has surfaced involving the appointment of vice-chancellors in Punjab's universities, as reports of bribes being offered to secure the prestigious positions have come to light. The teachers' organization has allegedly called a meeting to offer bribes to the Education Minister for these appointments, prompting an emergency meeting of the Academic Staff Association (ASA) at Punjab University scheduled for tomorrow.
The ASA released a statement expressing deep concern over media reports that several professors have offered bribes to government officials to secure vice-chancellor positions. The association condemned the act, describing it as a disgrace to the academic profession. They called for strict punishment for those involved in bribery for such appointments.
Secretary ASA has demanded that the Education Minister publicly disclose the names of those offering bribes. The teachers' union is set to decide on an action plan during the upcoming emergency meeting to address the issue and uphold the integrity of the academic institutions.
The scandal has emerged as the process for appointing permanent vice-chancellors in Punjab's universities reaches its final stages. According to sources, several candidates have offered substantial sums to secure their placement, with at least six candidates reportedly contacting government officials directly. Punjab's Education Minister, Rana Sikandar Hayat, has confirmed the offers of bribes and mentioned that members of the search committee were also approached with monetary incentives.
In a shocking revelation, a professor allegedly traveled to Murree with two crore rupees in cash to meet the Education Minister. The professor reportedly handed over the money to the minister's driver, intending to secure a vice-chancellor position as part of a larger scheme to make billions.
The final list of candidates for the vice-chancellor positions has been submitted to the Chief Minister of Punjab. The appointments for vice-chancellors at 14 universities are expected to be finalized within the next 15 days, with permanent vice-chancellors for another 11 universities to be appointed in a subsequent phase.
The ASA and other stakeholders are closely watching the situation, as the scandal threatens to undermine the credibility of the university appointment process and the integrity of the academic community in Punjab.
