Evening programs at public universities in Karachi have drifted away from their core educational purpose, becoming mere social hubs. Although these programs are essential for students aiming to earn degrees, poor oversight and mismanagement have led to a drastic decline in academic discipline. Despite the significant funding from the Sindh government, the College Education Department has failed to enforce essential academic protocols and campus maintenance.
Insufficient Student Attendance and Poor Facilities
Teachers and staff from various colleges describe a grim situation. At the Government Islamia Arts and Commerce College, only about 100 students enrolled after the college was relocated, and those who attend face inadequate facilities, such as the absence of proper classroom furniture. This lack of basic infrastructure discourages regular attendance and study.
Bawani Government College presents a similar picture. Relocated to a government school with only four classrooms, the college struggles with absentee teachers. A professor mentioned, “Some teachers haven’t performed their duties for a long time, but no one holds them accountable.” Without a principal to oversee operations, the college’s annual budget of Rs1.5 million remains unmonitored, and classes continue without direction.
Teachers Left with Empty Classrooms
A college principal revealed anonymously that even when teachers show up to give lectures, only a handful of students are present. Consequently, teachers spend their time discussing unrelated topics before leaving early. Some simply mark their attendance on the biometric machine and go home. Former Principal of Jamia Millia Government College, Professor Zakaullah, shared that he even created a special WhatsApp group to encourage students to attend regularly.
Data from The Express Tribune underscores the severity of the situation. In 17 government colleges across Karachi, only 500 out of 5,500 enrolled students (9%) attend classes daily, despite the Sindh government spending Rs764.3 million annually on salaries for 439 employees. These institutions include notable names like SM Arts and Commerce College, Liaquat Degree Government Boys College, and Government City College.
Underlying Causes of Low Attendance
The reasons for low attendance are multifaceted. Zahid Rajpar, Director General of Colleges Sindh, cited parental indifference as a significant factor. “Children leave home for college but never arrive, and parents fail to monitor them,” he noted. Additionally, the remote locations of certain colleges make them inaccessible for many students. While counselors have been appointed to encourage attendance, these efforts have yet to yield meaningful results.
Karachi’s evening programs are in urgent need of reform. Improved oversight by the College Education Department and the appointment of capable administrators are essential. Ensuring colleges meet basic facility standards and holding teachers accountable for their duties can help create an environment conducive to learning. Moreover, parental involvement in students’ educational activities is crucial to reinforcing the importance of consistent attendance.
The Path to Reform
Without swift and structured action, Karachi’s public evening programs will continue their downward spiral, wasting significant public resources and depriving students of quality education. Restoring discipline, enhancing facilities, and ensuring teacher accountability are vital steps to revitalize these programs and secure meaningful educational outcomes.
