We Opened Our Eyes in Dictatorship, Now Even Judges Are Gone,” Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani’s Notable Remarks in IHC Hearing

Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday issued directives to the Secretary Finance and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to submit a comprehensive report regarding the promotion of BPS faculty members in universities at the next hearing.

A single bench led by Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani heard the case concerning delays in promotions of university teachers. The court ordered that once the new HEC chairman is appointed, a meeting on the promotion policy must be convened within 15 days, and a report should then be submitted.

During the hearing, Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani made significant observations regarding the state of the education sector. He said, *“We belong to the generation of the 1980s who opened their eyes in the era of dictatorship. There are teachers who haven’t been regularized for 17 to 18 years.”*

He added that the frustration of teachers ultimately affects students: *“If teachers themselves are demoralized, students will also suffer. Both teachers and students have a role in defending the country. They may not understand this now, but when difficult times come, the importance will be felt.”*

Referring to the crucial role of educated youth, Justice Kayani remarked, *“University students are the ones who will lead the country tomorrow. We have recently witnessed an excellent example of national defense. Teachers should be in a strong position. Now even judges are no longer there—only teachers are left.”*

The court adjourned the hearing until January and directed the Secretary Finance and HEC to comply with the instructions and present their reports accordingly.