Falak Sher
Mardan
Professors from Government Colleges across Mardan Division, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Professor Lecturer Association (KPPLA) members from various regions gathered on May 11, 2024 at the historic Govt Post Graduate College (GPGC), Mardan for the “Voice of Professors Convention” KPPLA Election 2024. It was organized by KPPLA Mardan Division.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Professor Lecturer Association (KPPLA) Convention held at Govt Post Graduate College (GPGC) Mardan on May 11, 2024, was a significant event attended by professors and educators from government colleges across Mardan Division, along with KPPLA members from different parts of the province.
The convention began with a keynote address by Mardan Division President KPPLA, Professor Hayat Shah, from Govt College Takht Bhai. Professor Jamshed Khan from Govt College Peshawar was announced as a candidate for the President position in the upcoming KPPLA Elections. Muhammad Saqib, the KPPLA Finance Secretary, was also declared as a candidate for the General Secretary seat.
Speakers applauded the successful struggle of professors led by KPPLA President Jamshed Khan to oppose and defeat the previous Govt policy of the Board of Governors and the privatization of government colleges under pressure from International Monitory Fund (IMF).
Several key issues were addressed during the convention. Speakers vehemently rejected the government’s plans, particularly under pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), to ende pensions and increase the retirement age for professors. They applauded the ongoing struggle led by Jamshed Khan and KPPLA team for timely promotion and training of govt college professors.
The speakers emphasized the government’s responsibility to prioritize education and allocate adequate funds for higher education. They urged college professors to stand united in the face of these challenges. Additionally, full support was pledged to the All Government Employees Grand Alliance (AGEGA) and their charter of demands.
A critical issue highlighted during the convention was the illegal occupation of GPGC Mardan by Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM). Speakers stressed the importance of democratic elections within their association and warned the government of potential province-wide protests if the issues faced by professors were not addressed promptly.
Jamshed Khan praised the organizing committee of the event and thanked the professors of Govt Post Graduate College Mardan for their warm reception and hospitality.
In conclusion, the KPPLA Convention at GPGC Mardan served as a platform for professors and educators to voice their concerns and unite in their efforts to safeguard their rights and the future of education in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
