6 Jinnah Sindh Medical University faculty members urge VC to review decision to rehire professor after retirement

A group of six faculty members from Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) has formally requested the vice chancellor to reconsider a provincial cabinet decision that grants a three-year extension to a retiring professor. The faculty members expressed concern that this decision deviates from established principles of merit, seniority, and prescribed criteria.

In a letter dated August 11, the staffers, including senior registrars and associate and assistant professors from the JPMC's obstetrics and gynaecology department, highlighted that a significant number of associate and assistant professors are awaiting promotion based on their seniority and qualifications. They argue that such extensions are typically considered only when no suitable candidate is available for a position.

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Such extensions are usually considered only when no suitable incumbent is available to assume the relevant position. If the said decision is implemented, it may adversely affect the career progression of eligible members and undermine the principles of merit, seniority and established promotion criteria.

The faculty members warned that implementing this extension could negatively impact the career advancement of eligible staff, undermine merit-based systems, and potentially lower faculty morale and productivity. They also cautioned about administrative difficulties and a potential decline in the quality of teaching, research, and patient care within the institution.

The extension was granted to Prof Dr Nighat Shah, who heads an obstetrics and gynaecology ward at the JPMC, just before her retirement. Prof Shah is the daughter of former chief minister Qaim Ali Shah. Sources indicate this decision was made while the department had already advertised new teaching positions, leading to discussions on social media. While government officials maintain the extension is a contractual measure within policy frameworks, citing Prof Shah's contributions, medical professionals suggest the government could have navigated this situation differently by establishing clearer policies for retaining retired faculty.

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It may also have a negative impact on the morale and productivity of the faculty and create administrative difficulties within the institution, ultimately affecting the quality of teaching, research and patient care.