Government College University (GCU) has a new Vice Chancellor. Dr Muhammad Khaleeq ur Rahman joined the faculty last week as a renowned academic, well-reputed in Physics. Dr Khaleeq, who comes with 37-years of teaching experience, is still energetic and comes with a vision to GCU where he was appointed a regular VC for the period of four year.
Dr Khaleeq is a Phd Physics from Manchester University (UK) and was Chairman/Professor (Meritorious)/Director Laser & Optronics Centre/Incharge Nano Center at UET while he was also the member of UET’s syndicate. Dr Khaleeq takes charge of GCU at a period when the varsity faces numerous issues with the Ravian community perturbed about the direction taken by GCU after what they term as the ‘anti student’ and ‘anti academic’ policies of the former VC and Registrar.
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Shrif is known to have taken personal interest in the degeneration of affairs at the GCU and the appointment of Dr Khaleeq as GCU VC is being anticipated as a turning point. New GCU VC Dr Khaleeq ur Rehman speaks exclusively with Pakistan Today about the direction he has in mind for the future of GCU.
PT: Dr Khaleeq the academic world is changing. Research is becoming central to measuring the performance and contribution of a university. How do you intend to take GCU into the new academic world? What is your vision for GCU?
KR: First I must state what a privilege it is to be here, at the Government College University, tasked with directing it for four critical years for the university, Pakistan and the world. I agree with you. The challenges facing universities across the world have changed and GCU must enter that new phase. Universities are not only knowledge transmitters, they are knowledge producers. These are the lessons of the move to research in most well known universities. Another critical development is the move to offer multi-disciplinary programs. It is my vision to transform GCU to a multi-disciplinary, research university.
PT: So research is a priority? How do intend to improve the research standards at the university?
KR: Yes. Research is a priority. It will be my priority to bring modern equipment to GCU to our science labs so that we offer a conducive environment to our researchers. A similar focus shall go on social sciences and arts. Every department in the varsity is important and I shall personally visit and note all the issues within them to improve them.
PT: However, GCU does have a historical tradition and has contributed a number of key personalities for Pakistan? How do you hope to keep that vision alive?
KR: It is true. Many renowned personalities have been associated with GCU. It shall be my priority to continue the tradition.
PT: Faculty is critical to a university’s progress. How do you intend to take the faculty on board to fulfil your aim of making GCU modern? Qualified faculty has been stated to be a problem. How do you intend to solve it?
KR: At the moment I am getting to know and gain the confidence of my faculty, Deans and departments heads shall be the force that can lead GCU’s progress. I shall give maximum authority to faculty members since faculty empowerment is important to create an ideal academic environment.
When the situation inside is rectified, qualified faculty will come to GCU themselves.
PT: What shall be GCU’s recruitment policy? What is the situation of financial aid?
KR: The GCU remains the institution of all classes including the poor and middle class. GCU’s only admission requirement is merit. Poor students shall be supported through the endowment fund. We hope to generate more donations for the endowment fund.
PT: You are aware Pakistan has a rich tradition of student activism and unionisation. What is your stance on the political involvement of GCU students?
KR: Personally, I oppose the political activities of students unions at GCU. But I appreciate student societies and their role in developing a university’s image. However, there are many political societies at GCU which are performing well.
PT: What is your appraisal of the role of the HEC in terms of its focus of faculty qualifications? Do you think faculty members must have PhDs?
KR: The HEC has played a critical role in upping the morale of universities and encouraging a culture of research. The university’s of the world now recognise the research at Pakistan’s university and the credit goes to the HEC. The number of PhD scholars also increased due to the role taken by the HEC. At GCU, we shall try to encourage non-PhD’s and offer incentives for them to obtaining PhD degrees. GCU will not waste HEC scholarships and capable faculty members shall be aided.
PT: So what is your vision for faculty? And, yes, how do you access the GCU library? Some claim the books are getting stale?
KR: There are two types of teachers in Pakistan’s universities. One type who chooses teaching by choice. Another type who become teachers by chance. We shall prefer those who choose the profession. And, yes, I admit. The GCU libraries need attention. I shall ensure the necessary developments are made during my tenure.
PT: Thank you. Any last words?
KR: I repeat, it is a great privilege to be GCU VC. I shall dedicate my time and experience towards making it excel.
nice story by adnan….
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