A recent high-level meeting has exposed the alarming and deteriorating state of the Sindh University Sub-Campus located in Khanbahadur Syed Allhando Shah, Naushahro Feroze. Following detailed discussions with the campus focal person, Prof. Anila Naz Soomro, it is clear that the institution is grappling with severe administrative and infrastructural failures that are crippling its academic mission.
Administrative Vacuum and Financial Neglect
The core of the problem lies in a profound administrative vacuum. Shockingly, the sub-campus has still not been registered with the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan's premier regulatory body for universities. Compounding this issue is the absence of a permanent Pro-Vice Chancellor to provide leadership and direction. This lack of formal recognition and stable management has created massive obstacles in every aspect of the campus's functioning.
Financially, the situation is equally bleak. The University of Sindh, which oversees this sub-campus, is itself facing financial constraints and has not allocated a dedicated budget for the Naushahro Feroze facility. This financial abandonment has brought all development and maintenance work to a grinding halt.
Crumbling Infrastructure and Deprived Students
The direct consequences of this neglect are painfully visible on the ground. The campus building remains unfinished, and essential maintenance has been stopped. There is a critical shortage of modern teaching tools, including computers, laptops, and solar power systems.
Students, both male and female, are forced to study in an environment devoid of basic amenities. They lack access to clean drinking water, proper sanitation facilities, adequate furniture, and well-equipped laboratories. The faculty positions are not fully filled, leading to a teacher shortage in several key subjects, which further degrades the quality of education.
An Urgent Appeal for Immediate Intervention
Given this polycrisis, a passionate appeal has been issued to the highest authorities. The Vice Chancellor of the University of Sindh, Prof. Dr Fateh Marri, is urgently requested to personally visit the Naushahro Feroze sub-campus to witness the conditions firsthand and initiate immediate steps for its revival and renovation.
Furthermore, an appeal is made to the Honourable Minister for Universities and Boards, Mr Muhammad Ismail Rahu, to ensure crucial financial support, expedite the appointment of a permanent Pro-Vice Chancellor, and mandate the provision of essential academic facilities.
This sub-campus is a beacon of hope for higher education in an underdeveloped district. The government and university administration must act now to restore and strengthen this vital institution. There is a strong hope that the new administration of the University of Sindh will rectify past mistakes and work towards upgrading this campus into a full-fledged university, allowing it to play its rightful role in elevating the educational standards of the region.
DR ABDUL QADEER MEMON, Naushahro Feroze.
