MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): The University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir is one step closer to appointing a new Vice Chancellor, as the top three candidates have been finalized following a Syndicate meeting.
According to reliable sources, a special Syndicate session was held to review the list of five candidates compiled by the search committee. After careful consideration, the names of the top three contenders were forwarded to the President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, who also serves as the Chancellor of the university.
Ranked first on the list is Dr. Khattak from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, who has previously served as the founding Vice Chancellor of two different universities in KPK. His vast experience and outsider status are seen as a strength, potentially allowing him to lead the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir with neutrality and merit.
Dr. Ayesha Sohail, a local candidate from Muzaffarabad, is placed second. She is currently part of the university’s academic and administrative departments and has previously served as Registrar. This is her first time being considered for the Vice Chancellor role.
In third place is Dr. Brigadier (Retired) Ali Khan, originally from Bagh and currently teaching at the International Islamic University. He and Dr. Shahid (ranked fourth from Rawalakot) received the same score in the search committee’s evaluation. However, the committee ranked Dr. Ali Khan slightly higher.
The University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir is currently facing severe financial and administrative challenges. Due to these issues, there is an urgent need for a strict, fair, and honest administrator to lead the institution forward.
The final decision on the appointment will be made by the President/Chancellor from among the top three candidates. The university community now awaits the announcement, hoping the next leader will bring much-needed reform and stability to the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
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