KARACHI: The Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) Senate on Tuesday lauded the institution’s financial stability and academic growth during its 8th Senate meeting, chaired by Minister for Universities and Boards and Pro-Chancellor JSMU, Mohammad Ismail Rahoo.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Amjad Siraj Memon led the session, accompanied by Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. Nighat Shah, while Registrar Dr. Azam Khan conducted the proceedings.
Director Finance Khurram Khalid presented a surplus budget, earning commendation from the Minister, who noted that JSMU has continued to maintain fiscal resilience despite receiving no increase in the federal grant since 2017.
The Director of the Quality Enhancement Cell, Dr. Abdul Wahid Usmani, briefed the Senate on the University’s Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), highlighting significant growth over the past four years. JSMU has expanded from one to three campuses, increased its PhD programs from one to 23, and boosted student enrolment from around 8,000 to nearly 12,000. The Minister took particular interest in the progress and sought detailed clarifications on the developments.
Human resource issues were also discussed, including revisions to criteria for non-teaching positions amid challenges in finding qualified candidates and competition from private institutions. The matter was deferred for further review.
Senate Member Dr. Shaista Effendi called for a uniform employment policy to eliminate disparities between regular and contractual staff. The Vice Chancellor assured the Senate that a committee would be formed immediately to prepare recommendations within three months for the next meeting.
The session concluded with prayers for the late Prof. Dr. Shahid Rasul, remembered for his contributions to medical education.
Following the meeting, the Minister inaugurated the newly established Prof. Dr. Shahid Rasul Memorial Library. Director Libraries Syeda Umme Ruma Rehan said the state-of-the-art facility features a Smart Library Solution using Koha Automation integrated with SAP ERP, access to the HEC Digital Library, books, journals, CDs, periodicals, newspapers, dedicated discussion rooms, group study spaces, free Wi-Fi, and an RFID-enabled security system.
The new library underscores JSMU’s commitment to academic excellence, digital advancement, and student-focused learning.
