DERA ISMAIL KHAN (Staff Reporter)
Serious objections have emerged regarding the recent Selection Board proceedings for various teaching positions at Gomal University. Affected PhD faculty members and candidates have leveled allegations of procedural irregularities, merit violations, and nepotism during the recruitment process, demanding a high-level independent inquiry. On the other hand, the Gomal University Teachers Association (GUTA) has completely dismissed the allegations, labeling them as entirely baseless
Open Letter Highlights Blatant Violations:
In an eight-page open letter issued by the aggrieved candidates, it is asserted that rules and regulations were completely disregarded during appointments for the posts of Lecturer, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Professor. The candidates claimed that favored individuals were preferred over highly qualified and eligible applicants.
According to the affected candidates, an internal inquiry report previously highlighted flaws in the screening tests, issuance of call letters, awarding of demonstration marks, non-publication of merit lists, and the inclusion of irrelevant subject experts. However, no punitive action was recommended against the individuals responsible for these lapses.
University Teachers Association Refutes Claims:
Conversely, Professor Noor Muhammad, President of the Gomal University Teachers Association and a Syndicate member, addressed the concerns during a press conference. He clarified that specific cases, including that of a Professor of Islamic Studies and an Associate Professor for the Law College, are already being re-examined in strict accordance with the university regulations.
Professor Noor Muhammad assured that all these matters would be brought before the formal forums of the Selection Board and the Syndicate for detailed review, after which they will be presented to the government and the relevant oversight committee. He maintained that the allegations surrounding the recruitments and promotions are mere rumors lacking any substance, emphasizing that the entire process was executed transparently and according to prevailing laws.