KU VC race enters final stage

Over 40 candidates interviewed; stance on ICCBS separation emerges as an unexpected factor

KARACHI:

The selection process for the appointment of the next Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi has entered its final stage after interviews of more than 40 candidates were completed on Tuesday, with the future of the university's prestigious International Centre for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) emerging as a potential factor in the evaluation process.

The search committee will now recommend the names of three suitable candidates to the Sindh Chief Minister, who serves as the university's controlling authority, for the final appointment.

Sources said the competition among candidates remained intense due to their academic credentials, administrative experience and qualifications, making it challenging for the committee to reach a consensus on the final three names.

The current Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi, Dr Khalid Iraqi, did not appear for the interviews. His tenure is scheduled to end on July 28.

Meanwhile, sources claimed that some members of the interview panel also attempted to assess candidates on the basis of their likely position regarding a possible separation of ICCBS from the University of Karachi - a matter that has attracted attention among academic and government circles.

However, sources clarified that the entire search committee was not part of any such approach or policy consideration.

Sources further said that the three candidates shortlisted for recommendation to the Sindh Chief Minister may eventually have to clarify their position on the issue if questioned during the next stage of the appointment process.

The issue relates to discussions over the possible separation of ICCBS from the university. The centre's Patron-in-Chief has so far not supported the idea of separating the institution from Karachi University and had indicated this position during a recent ICCBS meeting.

Sources said that if any candidate secures the Vice Chancellor position on the basis of supporting such a move, they could potentially face opposition from Dr Atta-ur-Rahman and employees of the University of Karachi.

The final decision on the appointment will rest with the Sindh government after receiving recommendations from the search committee.