KARACHI: The University of Karachi has removed its controller of examinations, Dr Syed Zafar Hussain, from his post over alleged violations in his appointment process, Private Newspaper has learnt.
The Sindh Universities and Boards Department issued a letter to the university’s vice-chancellor, stating that Dr Hussain’s contractual appointment had been rescinded for “violating the prescribed procedures.” The action was taken following a recommendation from the Chief Minister’s Inspection, Enquiries and Implementation Team Department (CMIE&ITD).
The letter, dated June 17, 2025, said Dr Hussain’s two-year contractual appointment was not in line with official procedures or the chief minister’s directives. It further advised the university to develop recruitment rules for senior positions (BS-17 and above) and ensure all hiring is done through a transparent, competitive, and merit-based process.
The department also directed the university to follow its official code and submit a compliance report within seven days.
Though the official letter did not mention the reason, sources said Dr Hussain may have been removed because he was reappointed after retirement, which goes against university rules.
Speaking to the media, Dr Hussain said he was removed due to past media reports highlighting bureaucratic appointments during a financial crisis. “I retired in August 2023 and was later given a six-month contract by the Sindh government. After that, the university’s syndicate appointed me on a two-year contract,” he explained.
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Dr Hussain said there was no inquiry against him and claimed that only the university syndicate has the authority to remove him. “My removal through a letter is illegal,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Peoples Students Federation (PSF), the student wing of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), had been challenging Dr Hussain’s appointment, claiming it violated university rules. The group had also submitted a request to the chief minister for an official inquiry.
Teachers’ organisations, including the Karachi University Teachers Society and the Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Association (FAPUASA), Sindh, have long opposed the appointment of retired individuals to university positions.
FAPUASA Vice President Dr Akhtiar Ghumro welcomed the decision. “We have always demanded the removal of retired officials reappointed in universities. The removal of KU’s controller of examinations is a step in the right direction,” he said.
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