POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

KPK Assembly Approves Bill Granting University Chancellor Powers to CM Ali Amin Gandapur

KPK Assembly approves Universities Amendment Bill 2024, giving CM Ali Amin Gandapur powers as Chancellor, including appointing Vice Chancellors.
2025-01-21
KPK Assembly Approves Bill Granting University Chancellor Powers to CM Ali Amin Gandapur

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly has passed the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Universities Amendment Bill 2024, transferring the powers of the Governor as Chancellor of universities to Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. The bill was sent for approval to Governor Shah Farman, but after objections were raised, the Assembly issued a notification to enact the bill into law.

Key Changes in the New Law

Previously, the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa held the position of Chancellor for all public universities in the province. However, under the newly passed bill, the Chief Minister will now hold this crucial role. This shift of power is seen as a significant move in reshaping the educational governance structure in the province.

The bill gives Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur the authority to appoint Vice Chancellors (VCs) of universities. The Chief Minister will now select a Vice Chancellor from a list of three candidates proposed by the Academic Search Committee. The term of office for the Vice Chancellor has been set to four years, but the bill includes provisions for early termination if the VC's performance is deemed unsatisfactory.

Reactions and Implications

The move has raised discussions about the increased centralization of power within the provincial government. Proponents argue that this change will streamline decision-making and ensure more direct accountability for educational leadership. However, critics may voice concerns about the concentration of authority in the hands of a single individual, especially in a sector as critical as higher education.

Transition of Powers

With the notification issued today, the legal framework is now in place, and Chief Minister Gandapur officially assumes his new role as Chancellor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's universities. The shift marks the culmination of a legislative process that began with the introduction of the amendment bill and was followed by its rejection by the Governor before its eventual enactment.

What's Next?

As Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur steps into his expanded role, the next steps will include making key appointments and overseeing the governance of the province’s universities. This change could potentially bring about reforms in how universities are run, from faculty appointments to research and development priorities.