Shaheed Sikandar Zehri University: A Beacon of Hope for Higher Education in Khuzdar
Shaheed Sikandar Zehri University, located in Khuzdar, Balochistan, was established with the aim of improving access to higher education in the region. Named after a notable figure in the area, the university represents a significant step toward empowering the youth of Balochistan through quality education. However, despite its establishment, the university remains largely inactive, raising concerns about its functionality and the future of education in the province.
The Vision Behind the University
The idea of Shaheed Sikandar Zehri University was to address the lack of higher education institutions in Khuzdar and its surrounding areas. The region, like much of Balochistan, suffers from low literacy rates, limited educational infrastructure, and a lack of opportunities for students to pursue higher studies. The university was envisioned to bridge this gap, providing quality education and fostering socio-economic growth in the area.
Current Challenges
Unfortunately, the university has been unable to live up to its promise. As of December 2024, Shaheed Sikandar Zehri University remains non-functional, with no regular academic activities taking place. Several factors contribute to this situation:
1. Administrative Inefficiency: Poor governance and administrative hurdles have delayed the operationalization of the university.
2. Lack of Funding: Insufficient allocation of resources has prevented the completion of infrastructure and the hiring of qualified faculty members.
3. Political Interference: Allegations of favoritism and corruption have further stalled the progress of the university.
Impact on Students and the Community
The inactivity of the university has had a significant impact on the region. Thousands of students in Khuzdar and nearby areas have been deprived of higher education opportunities. Many are forced to relocate to other cities, which is often financially burdensome, or abandon their academic aspirations altogether.
For a region already struggling with limited resources and opportunities, the delay in the university’s operations represents a lost opportunity for development. Education is a cornerstone of progress, and the absence of a functional university undermines efforts to uplift the community.
Calls for Action
Local leaders, educational organizations, and student unions have been vocal about the need to address these issues. The Balochistan Students Organisation (BSO) has criticized the government’s inaction and called for urgent measures to make the university functional. They argue that investing in education is not just a moral obligation but also essential for the economic and social development of the province.
The Way Forward
To realize the vision behind Shaheed Sikandar Zehri University, the following steps are crucial:
• Increased Funding: The provincial and federal governments must allocate sufficient resources to complete the university’s infrastructure and ensure its smooth operation.
• Merit-Based Appointments: Hiring qualified faculty and administrative staff through a transparent, merit-based process is essential.
• Community Engagement: Involving local stakeholders, including students and educators, can help identify and address the challenges faced by the university.
Shaheed Sikandar Zehri University has the potential to transform the educational landscape of Khuzdar and contribute to the overall development of Balochistan. However, without immediate and sustained efforts to address its challenges, the university risks becoming another symbol of unfulfilled promises. The youth of Khuzdar deserve access to quality higher education, and it is the collective responsibility of all stakeholders to ensure that this institution becomes a reality.