The Sindh government has decided to propose an increase in the retirement age of public university professors from 60 to 65 years. A summary seeking approval for the change will be submitted to the provincial cabinet.
Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah announced the plan while addressing a meeting of vice-chancellors from 32 public universities across the province.
During the meeting, Shah said the Sindh government provides substantial financial support to public universities compared with other provinces. He stated that universities across Sindh are receiving a combined grant-in-aid of Rs. 44.46 billion.
The chief secretary also called for a comprehensive policy and clear criteria for establishing new university campuses. He emphasized that decisions should be based on educational needs and the availability of financial resources.
University vice-chancellors also raised concerns regarding the Right to Information law. They argued that some information requests concern matters that have no direct connection with public interest.
Shah further highlighted pension liabilities as a major financial challenge for public universities. He advised universities to discourage unnecessary recruitment, particularly in non-teaching departments, to help reduce the growing financial burden.
The proposed increase in retirement age is expected to be considered by the provincial cabinet before any final decision is implemented.
