In recent years, Pakistani universities have witnessed a profound shift in the evaluation criteria for academic excellence. The emphasis on research has become so pronounced that it now overshadows traditional measures of teaching competence. This article delves into the repercussions of this shift, exploring the challenges faced by the educational system, the role of professors, and the impact on both students and the nation.
Job interviews at universities in Pakistan often center around the question of research publications. The affirmative response opens the door to further inquiries about the journals’ impact factors or accreditation by the Higher Education Commission (HEC). A negative response, however, leads to skepticism, painting the candidate as less competent, highlighting a concerning trend.
In the current landscape, competence is gauged more by the quantity of research papers than teaching abilities. Professors find themselves in a race to produce an increasing number of papers, reflecting a system where research prowess overshadows pedagogical skills. This has created a dichotomy where academic brilliance in research does not necessarily translate into effective teaching.
Despite a surge in research articles produced by Pakistani students, the impact within the country remains minimal. Industries in China benefit from this research, highlighting a stark lack of mechanisms for the practical application of these findings within Pakistan. As a consequence, the nation faces an inevitable decline in its own industries.
Despite the global proliferation of research articles, Pakistani universities grapple with uncertainty and decline. The abundance of research does not seem to correlate with an improvement in the educational system. Social sciences, in particular, face challenges due to the limited number of journals, making the publication process lengthy and challenging.
The expectations from professors have shifted, with research taking precedence over teaching. While today’s students are deemed more intelligent and inquisitive, the current crop of professors, highly qualified in research, may not necessarily be the best educators. The pursuit of academic excellence has tilted heavily towards research, leaving teaching skills in the background.
The proliferation of universities across the country has not been met with a proportional increase in educational quality. Only Quaid-i-Azam University stands out among top Asian universities, with others struggling to establish their reputation. The policies of the Higher Education Commission, lacking in rationality, play a crucial role in shaping this scenario.
The policy linking Ph.D. degrees and financial incentives to research publications has altered the academic landscape. While in the 1980s, a professorship required 10 to 12 papers, the current system demands hundreds. This policy has shifted the focus from teaching to publishing, leading to a skewed balance in the professor’s role.
The dominance of research in Pakistani universities poses a multifaceted challenge that requires careful consideration. Striking a balance between research and teaching is essential for the holistic development of students and the sustained growth of the nation. Policies need reevaluation to ensure that educational institutions foster an environment where both research and teaching are valued and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.
By: Waseem Khattak
Head of Journalism, Women University Swabi.
Email:-awaseemkhattak@gmail.com
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