KARACHI:
Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University Lyari has decided to launch MPhil and PhD programmes in several departments, along with nursing and Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) programmes, Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Hussain Mehdi said in an interview with The Express Tribune.
He said the university expects to receive a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Higher Education Commission within the next few days. Meanwhile, a meeting of the university’s Senate — being convened after 15 years — is scheduled for Wednesday to approve the institution’s budget, which had been utilised without formal approval during this period.
According to the vice chancellor, preparations have been completed to introduce an MPhil in Information Technology, a PhD in Business, and MPhil/PhD programmes in English and Education. He added that once the NOC for the nursing and DPT programmes is received, the relevant accreditation councils will be invited to inspect the departments, after which admissions are expected to begin from the next academic session.
The Senate meeting will be chaired by Sindh Minister for Universities and Boards Ismail Rahu.
Dr Mehdi said ongoing reforms, academic improvements and development initiatives at the university have unsettled certain vested interests, who are allegedly spreading misleading propaganda. He maintained that the institution is steadily moving towards academic improvement and institutional stability.
Over the past year, the university has appointed professors, associate professors and lecturers, which has strengthened teaching and research activities. Previously, several departments lacked professors and deans, and some were functioning without permanent leadership.
He added that the administrative structure has also been strengthened through the formal establishment of the syndicate. In addition, the university has signed memorandums of understanding with more than 20 well-known companies.
