SMU Faculty Seeks Review of Three-Year Professor Extension
Six faculty members of Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) have challenged a three-year extension for a retiring professor. They have asked the vice chancellor to review the decision and protect merit and seniority.The faculty members sent a letter on Aug 11. They raised concerns about the cabinet’s decision to extend Prof Dr Nighat Shah’s service.
They said many associate and assistant professors await promotion under existing criteria. Therefore, the extension could affect their career progression.
Faculty raises merit concerns
The faculty members said authorities usually grant such extensions when no suitable replacement exists. They warned that the decision could weaken merit and established promotion rules.The group also raised concerns about staff morale and productivity. In addition, they said the move could affect teaching, research and patient care.The letter urged the vice chancellor to consider the issue in the wider public interest. It also asked him to uphold seniority and prescribed promotion criteria.
The cabinet recently approved the three-year extension for Prof Shah. She heads an obstetrics and gynaecology ward at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre.
Sources said the department had already advertised teaching positions. The decision therefore sparked debate among members of the medical community and on social media.
PMDC rules and institutional policy
Government officials say the extension follows permissible contractual rules under Pakistan Medical and Dental Council guidelines. They also cited Prof Shah’s long service and contributions.
A PMDC notification issued on May 19 allows public medical institutions to hire retired faculty up to age 65. However, such appointments must meet institutional needs and applicable rules.The notification also says contractual appointments cannot affect junior faculty promotions or career progression. Furthermore, the policy does not require institutions to hire retired faculty.
JSMU adopted the PMDC notification through its syndicate and senate. The university later sought government approval to hire retired faculty during staff shortages.
Sources said that approval remains pending. They also said Prof Shah became a full professor through JSMU’s 2024-25 selection board.
