Elections for Major Forums at University of Baltistan Skardu

 

Elections for the major forums of the University of Baltistan, including the Senate, Syndicate, and Representation Committees, were conducted from July 1st to July 4th. The election process has concluded. In my opinion, University of Baltistan has set a unique record of success. Three years ago, elections were also held for major forums such as the Senate, Syndicate, Academic Council, and Representation Committees, contributing to the growth of University of Baltistan. With the completion of the second election process today, University of Baltistan's maturity has been clearly demonstrated.

The clarity of “Maturity” can be understood from the fact that bodies like the Senate, Syndicate, and Academic Council serve as the backbone of any University. These are the bodies where policies are implemented and various decisions are ratified. If a University's identity is research and teaching, then bringing these bodies into the forefront for major and long-term decisions becomes essential. In this sense, as these bodies are integral to any University, we can say that University of Baltistan has upheld its duties and, by shining a light on educational and administrative traditions, has joined the circle of "Maturity.”

As a critic, a significant segment of society at University of Baltistan often points out shortcomings and deficiencies. Sometimes this criticism takes the form of sharp and incisive statements. However, on the other hand, it is necessary for this segment to also wield the pen of praise and description. Today, with the completion of elections for major forums, a democratic tradition has taken root within the University's framework. The respectful professors utilized their right to vote to elect representatives for the Senate, Syndicate, and Representation Committees, casting their votes in a free environment provided by the administration. In particular, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Mohammad Naeem Khan and Registrar Waseemullah Jan Malik fulfilled their supervisory responsibilities while providing ample evidence of impartiality. Neither of them showed any bias in any action, and all respected professors voted for the candidate they deemed appropriate. This is how democratic traditions function, and at any institution's level of maturity, individuals send their representatives to relevant forums according to their preference, and the administration accepts the professors' opinions with a smiling face. Baltistan University's administration upheld this democratic tradition and became a guarantor of guiding principles for the future. I have also witnessed elections at the University of Karachi. There, I observed a fierce and confrontational contest between two groups of professors. Similar to University of Baltistan, I did not see any undue influence by the administration during the electoral process. Both universities have upheld this democratic tradition.

In the recent elections, almost all new faces were successful. This also indicates the establishment of a guiding principle that everyone should be given an opportunity and everyone should be allowed to contribute their services. We saw that these elections were characterized by mutual understanding and harmony. During this period, a prime example of agreement was established, and there was absolutely no element of division or discord. It is hoped that Baltistan University will succeed in achieving its lofty goals and will continue its efforts and endeavors towards reaching new heights. (Insha'Allah)

Dated: 05 July 2024