Sukkur (Report by Zulfiqar Solangi)
In an important interaction between the media fraternity and academia, a delegation of Sukkur National Press Club and Sukkur Union of Journalists (SUJ) called on Vice Chancellor of IBA Sukkur, Dr. Asif Sheikh, in a meeting that highlighted the achievements, challenges, and future goals of one of Pakistan’s leading educational institutions.

The delegation was led by Imdad Phulpoto, founder of Sukkur National Press Club and a senior central leader of journalists, while the newly elected leadership of SUJ was also part of the meeting. Among those present were SUJ President Parvez Khan, General Secretary Abdul Rauf, former President Rashid Raza, and prominent members of the Press Club including Vice President Deen Muhammad Samijo, Syed Kamran, Nisar Chanjen, Habibullah Behlkani, Rustam Andhar, Ahmed Qureshi, Rahib Mangrio, Syed Nauman, and Muzaffar Mangi.

The session carried a spirit of open dialogue and mutual respect, as the delegation lauded the role of IBA Sukkur in raising the standards of higher education in the region.

IBA Sukkur – A Symbol of Merit and Excellence

Addressing the delegation, Vice Chancellor Dr. Asif Sheikh proudly declared that IBA Sukkur stands as a model of meritocracy in Pakistan. He noted that the institution is ranked among the top five universities in the country, an achievement made possible through dedication, hard work, and transparency in its processes.

He further added that IBA’s recognition is not limited to Pakistan alone but extends globally, as it continues to collaborate with the world’s leading universities to provide quality education and training to its students. “This global engagement is a reason why even the Chief Minister of Sindh has acknowledged that graduates of IBA Sukkur do not need to search for jobs – jobs themselves come looking for them,” he remarked with pride.

Commitment to Merit and Transparency

Dr. Sheikh emphasized that the greatest strength of IBA Sukkur is its unwavering commitment to merit. He pointed out that the institution successfully conducted the MDCAT examination purely on merit, which added to the credibility of both the university and its testing services.

Dispelling any notion of political interference, he made it clear: “No political pressure has ever been exerted on me. My resignation letter and office keys are always in my pocket, ready to be handed over if merit is ever compromised.”

He also acknowledged the support of District Chairman Syed Kamil Haider Shah in arranging classes for competitive exams but maintained that all student admissions were strictly based on merit without exceptions.

IBA Testing Services and Public Schools

Highlighting the diverse contributions of the institution, Dr. Sheikh elaborated that the IBA Testing Service is solely responsible for conducting examinations in a fair and transparent manner. “It is the responsibility of the government to provide jobs, not ours. Our task is to ensure that the examination process remains credible and merit-based,” he clarified.

He also drew attention to IBA’s public schools, which he described as shining examples of meritocracy and quality learning environments. These schools, he said, offer students opportunities to learn in well-equipped settings with a focus on both academic and character development.

Praise from the Media Delegation

Members of the Sukkur National Press Club and the Union of Journalists praised IBA Sukkur’s remarkable progress under Dr. Sheikh’s leadership. They noted that the university’s rise to national prominence reflects the dedication of its administration and staff to academic integrity. The journalists’ delegation stressed that IBA Sukkur is not only producing qualified graduates but also reshaping the image of Sindh as a hub of education and opportunity.

Former SUJ President Rashid Raza lauded Dr. Sheikh’s insistence on keeping merit intact even in the face of challenges, while President Parvez Khan and General Secretary Abdul Rauf expressed hope that IBA Sukkur would continue to expand its outreach and strengthen opportunities for youth across Sindh.

Strengthening Academia-Media Relations

The meeting also emphasized the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and the media. Journalists noted that IBA Sukkur’s story of success and merit deserves wider coverage, as it can inspire other institutions in Pakistan to adopt similar transparent policies.

Dr. Sheikh, in return, appreciated the role of journalists in shaping public opinion and highlighting positive initiatives. He assured the delegation that IBA Sukkur would remain open to dialogue, constructive criticism, and partnership opportunities to further its mission of promoting quality education.

A Message for the Future

The interaction concluded on a note of optimism, with both sides agreeing that the pursuit of merit, transparency, and hard work must remain central to the progress of Pakistan’s educational institutions.

In his final remarks, Dr. Sheikh said, “Our goal is not just to provide education but to produce leaders, innovators, and responsible citizens who will serve Pakistan with integrity. IBA Sukkur will never compromise on merit, and that is our biggest strength.”

The delegation left the meeting encouraged, reaffirming their support for IBA Sukkur’s initiatives and vowing to continue highlighting such positive examples in the media.