Noting that around Rs 300,000 is spent on each intern from the state exchequer.
ISLAMABAD:
The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Education on Monday raised concerns over the transparency of a government-funded nursing training programme, questioned the financial and administrative crisis at the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology (FUUAST) and examined the regulatory framework governing Cambridge qualifications in Pakistan.
The committee, which met in Parliament under the chairmanship of Acting President Mahtab Akbar Rashdi, sought a detailed explanation from the National Vocational and Technical Education Commission (NAVTTC) on the selection of the International Skill Center (ICS) as the implementing partner of the NCLEX nursing education program.
The committee was informed that the initiative aims to prepare Pakistani nurses for international licensing and employment. However, members expressed concern that the selection of 500 trainees was not announced publicly and the candidates were nominated by the Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council (PNMC).
Noting that around Rs 300,000 is spent on each intern from the exchequer, the committee asked NAVTTC to submit complete details on selection of implementation partner, appointment criteria and implementation framework of the scheme.
The committee also expressed serious concerns over ongoing governance, financial and administrative issues within FUUAST. Members were informed that financial constraints had delayed the payment of salaries and pensions of teachers, employees and retired staff, thereby creating administrative difficulties and unrest among employees.
Criticizing the university administration for its failure to resolve the issues, the committee stressed that the vice-chancellor should actively engage relevant authorities for financial support.
With the contribution of the APP
