Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) in Tandojam has ushered in a new era of transparency and student-centricity with the launch of a completely reformed undergraduate admissions system. The initiative replaces older procedures with a structured, modern process that prioritizes merit and student choice.
A New Chapter in University Admissions
The university has initiated a choice-based admission mechanism where candidates are granted admissions strictly on merit and on the spot. This process comprehensively considers a student's final academic scores, results from the entry test, and performance in an open introductory interview. According to an SAU spokesperson, this system allows candidates to select degree programmes that align with their merit position, personal aptitude, and career preferences, marking a significant departure from previous frameworks.
On the very first day of this new process, the university witnessed strong participation. Hundreds of students from Shaheed Benazirabad, Naushahro Feroze, and Sanghar districts arrived to secure bachelor’s degree seats across SAU's five faculties, the Information Technology Centre, and the Institute of Food Sciences and Technology.
Ensuring Smooth and Transparent Facilitation
To guarantee a seamless experience, the university administration implemented extensive arrangements. Separate waiting areas were established for students and their parents. The campus featured dedicated guidance desks, on-screen displays of general merit lists, and convenient on-the-spot admission counters. Furthermore, the university set up specific desks for fee challan issuance and document submission points to streamline the procedure.
Deans from various faculties and members of the admission committees were actively present to guide applicants through each step, ensuring decisions were made according to merit and programme availability.
Leadership Hails a Modern Approach
Vice Chancellor Engr Prof Dr Altaf Ali Siyal personally visited the admission activities to review arrangements and gather feedback from students and parents. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Siyal emphasized the innovative nature of the system.
"Displaying academic credentials, entry test results, and district-wise available seats on screens and granting admissions accordingly reflects an exceptionally transparent, merit-driven and modern approach," stated Dr Siyal. He noted that this level of openness is adopted by only a select few universities in Pakistan.
The VC confirmed that the first phase has been highly successful. He assured that final merit lists will be issued promptly and that classes will commence within the current month, a notable improvement from previous years when the admission process was considerably prolonged.
Admission Schedule and Expansion
The ongoing admission process at the Tandojam campus will continue until January 9, 2024. The university has released a detailed district-wise schedule:
- January 6: Candidates from Umerkot, Tharparkar, and Mirpurkhas.
- January 7: Applicants from Hyderabad, Thatta, and Sujawal.
- January 8: Students from Jamshoro, Matiari, and Tando Allahyar.
- January 9: Final day for candidates from Karachi, Tando Muhammad Khan, and Badin.
The spokesperson also confirmed that the same transparent admission model has already been successfully implemented at SAU's satellite campuses. Admissions at the SAU Umerkot Campus and the Khairpur College of Agriculture and Management Sciences have been completed under this new system.
The event was also attended by Dean of the Faculty of Crop Production Dr Inayatullah Rajper, Registrar Ghulam Mohiuddin Qureshi, and other senior university officials, underscoring the institutional commitment to this transformative reform.
