The selection process for the new Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi has entered its final phase after the search committee completed interviews with more than 40 candidates seeking to lead one of Pakistan’s largest public universities.
Following the conclusion of interviews, the committee will recommend three shortlisted candidates to the Sindh Chief Minister, who will make the final appointment.
According to sources, the selection process has been highly competitive due to the strong academic credentials and administrative experience of many applicants. The committee reportedly faced difficulty narrowing the field because of the high calibre of candidates.
Among those interviewed were Professor Shehnila Zardari (NED University), Dr Muazzam Ali Khan (Government College University Hyderabad), Dr Wasim Qazi (Metropolitan University Karachi), Dr Hussain Mehdi (Lyari University), and former Higher Education Commission Executive Director Dr Zia-ul-Qayyum, along with several other senior educationists.
Current Vice Chancellor Dr Khalid Iraqi did not apply for another term, with his tenure set to conclude on July 28.
Sources also revealed that discussions during the selection process covered key institutional challenges, including the future of the International Centre for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) and broader issues relating to academic development, research, and university administration.
The appointment of the next Vice Chancellor is considered crucial for Karachi University as the institution looks to strengthen academic excellence, expand research initiatives, improve governance, and address administrative challenges.
