University of Karachi students approach SHC seeking revival of student unions

KARACHI: Students from the University of Karachi’s School of Law have approached the Sindh High Court (SHC), seeking the restoration of student unions at the institution.

The petition names the Sindh chief secretary, secretaries of the universities and boards, colleges and law departments, along with the university’s vice chancellor and registrar, as respondents.

The petitioners stated that although the Sindh Students Union Act was passed in 2022, the rules and regulations required for its implementation have yet to be finalised. They have asked the court to direct the provincial government to complete the process and formally notify the rules.

They have also sought orders for the university administration to establish an election commission and arrange elections for the student union, enabling students to elect their representatives.

The Sindh Student Union Bill was initially drafted in 2019 and referred to the standing committee on law and parliamentary affairs for further consideration.

Following consultations with various stakeholders over two years, the provincial assembly unanimously passed the legislation in February 2022, with support from both treasury and opposition members.

Under the law, student unions are intended to complement academic programmes and extracurricular activities at universities and colleges.

The legislation aims to encourage students’ participation in social, cultural, intellectual and recreational activities, community service and campus governance, while ensuring that union members genuinely represent students at their respective educational institutions.