KARACHI: The Sindh government has extended the tenure of Dr Nighat Shah, daughter of former Sindh chief minister Qaim Ali Shah, for another three years, despite the availability of five associate professors with years of experience whose promotions could reportedly be affected by the decision.

Dr Nighat Shah, who was due to retire on August 12 at the age of 60, was granted the three-year extension just one day before her scheduled retirement.

According to an official notification, the Universities and Boards Department has directed the Vice Chancellor of Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) to take immediate action regarding her reappointment.

The notification states that the decision was taken in the “larger public interest” and directs that it be implemented without delay.

Dr Nighat Shah was initially appointed as an associate professor at JSMU and subsequently promoted to professor within a relatively short period, according to the available details.

The Sindh Cabinet has approved the extension of her three-year appointment, while her reappointment as professor at JSMU will be made under the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) notification issued on May 19.

The PMDC notification allows retired faculty members to be retained on a contractual basis up to the age of 65. However, the council has also clearly directed that the reappointment of retired faculty should not adversely affect the promotion prospects of junior teachers.

Sources said Dr Nighat Shah’s reappointment could affect the promotion prospects of five associate professors at JSMU who have extensive experience.

Despite the possibility of the five associate professors being affected, the decision to reappoint Dr Nighat Shah has been approved by the Sindh government.

The development has raised questions over the timing of the extension and its potential impact on the career progression of existing faculty members at the university.