KARACHI: The Sindh Health Department has come under criticism for alleged procedural negligence and haste after it nominated Dr. Raufat Jan as the provincial representative of private nursing faculties in the Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council (PNMC).
According to the Ministry of National Health Services and Coordination (Islamabad), the official nomination process was not properly circulated or processed through required administrative channels. The ministry’s notification, in line with the PNMC Ordinance, clearly states that nominees must be under 62 years of age and free from any ongoing inquiry or criminal proceedings.
The controversy has reignited concerns about past governance lapses within the nursing sector. Observers recall similar administrative irregularities during the tenure of a former PNC president, who resigned following the ministry’s intervention after reports of financial mismanagement.
Nomination reversed after internal review
The Sindh Health Department reportedly reversed Dr. Raufat Jan’s nomination within two days after an internal review highlighted flaws in the appointment process. Sources allege that the initial approval came from the Sindh Health Secretary based on a political reference, without the required official verification or circulation procedures.
Questions over faculty eligibility at Ziauddin College of Nursing
In a related development, questions have been raised about a faculty member at Ziauddin College of Nursing, who serves as the Principal of the undergraduate program but holds a Master’s degree in Microbiology instead of the required Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
Under the PNMC Ordinance, a valid Master’s in Nursing or an equivalent qualification recognized by both the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Nursing Council is mandatory. Since a degree in Microbiology is not recognized by the council, the program’s eligibility has now come under scrutiny.
Calls for transparency and reform
Senior nursing professionals have expressed frustration over the nomination-based system, which they argue enables political influence and favoritism rather than merit-based representation. Many in the nursing community advocate for transparent elections within the Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council, viewing it as the only credible way to ensure accountability and strengthen professional integrity.
The incident has renewed calls for the Sindh Health Department to adopt stricter oversight mechanisms, ensure compliance with PNMC regulations, and uphold merit and transparency in all future appointments.
