The Sindh government plans to increase the retirement age of university professors from 60 to 65 years. The proposal aims to retain experienced teachers in public-sector higher education institutions across the province.

Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah announced the proposed change during a meeting with vice-chancellors of 32 public universities. He said a summary would be sent to the provincial cabinet for approval.

The proposed increase in the retirement age cannot take effect without the cabinet’s approval. If approved, the change would allow eligible professors to continue serving universities for five additional years.

The move is intended to help public universities retain experienced faculty members. However, the proposal remains under consideration and has not yet been implemented.

Sindh Government Plans Change in Retirement Policy

During the meeting, Shah discussed several issues affecting public universities in Sindh. The proposed retirement policy was among the key matters raised during discussions with university leaders.

Retaining experienced professors could help institutions benefit from their academic knowledge and teaching experience. The proposed change would also extend the period during which senior faculty members can contribute to research and education.

The provincial cabinet will review the summary before making a final decision. Further details about the proposal’s implementation will depend on the approval process.

Public Universities Receive Rs44.46 Billion in Grants

The chief secretary also highlighted the financial support provided by the Sindh government to public universities. He said institutions across the province receive grants-in-aid worth Rs44.46 billion.

These funds support university operations and educational activities. Shah noted that Sindh provides substantial financial assistance to its universities compared with other provinces.

However, he stressed that institutions must use their available resources efficiently. Universities need to balance academic responsibilities with growing financial pressures.

Clear Policy Needed for New University Campuses

The meeting also addressed the need for a comprehensive policy governing the establishment of new university campuses.

Shah said authorities should consider educational needs, financial sustainability, and available resources before approving new campuses. Clear criteria could help ensure that expansion plans remain practical and financially manageable.

University leaders also raised concerns about implementing the Right to Information law. According to the chief secretary, some vice-chancellors had reservations about requests for information they believed were unrelated to public interest.

These concerns were discussed as part of wider efforts to improve university administration and governance.

Pension Costs Create Financial Pressure

Pension liabilities were another major concern discussed during the meeting. Shah warned that these obligations were placing increasing pressure on university budgets.

He urged institutions to control unnecessary spending and manage their finances more carefully. He also advised universities to avoid unnecessary recruitment, particularly in non-teaching departments.

The chief secretary emphasised that financial discipline should not affect universities’ core academic responsibilities. Institutions must continue supporting education while addressing their growing expenses.

Cabinet Approval Needed for Retirement Age Increase

The proposed retirement age increase is part of broader discussions about managing public universities in Sindh. The government is considering ways to retain experienced faculty while addressing administrative and financial challenges.

If the cabinet approves the proposal, the retirement age for university professors could rise from 60 to 65 years. Until then, the existing retirement age remains unchanged.

The decision will be important for public universities seeking to balance faculty retention, institutional needs, and financial sustainability.

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