Around 40 per cent of positions in the top universities across Pakistan are currently vacant, raising serious concerns about the impact on academic and administrative performance.
The inner sources revealed that several key positions, including Pro Vice Chancellor, Registrar, Treasurer and Controller of Examinations, are remaining unfilled in many institutions.
The prolonged vacancies are reportedly disrupting administrative efficiency and academic activities.
HEC response on current situation
In response, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has issued urgent directives, instructing universities to begin recruitment for vacant teaching and administrative posts immediately.
A clear deadline has also been set to ensure the process is completed without further delay.
The HEC has directed Vice Chancellors and institutional heads to ensure that all appointments are made strictly on merit, with full transparency and in accordance with established rules and regulations.
Additionally, universities have been instructed to convene regular selection board meetings and clear all pending recruitment cases without delay.
The Commission has warned that administrative action will be taken against officials responsible for unnecessary delays in the hiring process.
The letter from Chairman HEC, Dr Niaz Ahmed Akhtar, states that a large number of positions, including Pro Vice Chancellor, Registrar, Dean, Controller of Examinations and teaching posts, are currently vacant, which is negatively affecting academic and administrative affairs.
The Commission has directed Vice-Chancellors to make immediate appointments and clarified that the process of transparent, merit-based recruitment must be completed by August 15, 2026.
The HEC has instructed universities to ensure high administrative standards, merit-based governance, and institutional accountability. The letter also warns that administrative action may be taken in cases of unnecessary delays in appointments.
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