ISLAMABAD: For the third consecutive year, teachers serving in federal government (FG) colleges have been left in an uncertain situation as the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) has yet to issue updated seniority lists which is a critical document that directly impacts their promotions and career advancement.

Seniority lists, typically released annually, establish an ordered ranking of teachers based on their date of appointment, length of service, qualifications and experience. These lists are fundamental in determining eligibility for promotions and time-scale benefits within the FDE`s service structure, which operates under a four-tier formula.

Accordingly, separate seniority lists are required for each cadre Lecturers, Assistant Professors, Associate Professors and Professors.

`Currently, the director (colleges) is a principal from a model college. He has a model college background and isunfamiliar with the unique structure and challenges of FG institutions,` a senior teacher noted. `As a result, matters pertaining to FG colleges are often ignored or delayed.

The last time the director (colleges) was appointed from FG colleges was in 2012-13, when Professor Mehmood Akhter Malik held the position. Since then, all subsequent appointments have been made from model colleges, a trend that many in the FG teaching community view as discriminatory and damaging to morale.

Prof Tahir Bhatti, General Secretary of the Federal Government College Teachers Association (FGCTA), emphasised the significance of seniority lists.

`They are essential for clarity and transparency in career decisions. Considerations regarding promotions, time-scale benefits hinge on seniority. Without them, there`s a risk of favouritism, bias, and administrative confusion.` He called forimmediate action, demanding that the FDE issue seniority lists for all cadres without further delay.

FGCTA President Prof Akram Khan Khosa said that the consistent delays in issuing seniority lists were causing anxiety and frustration among teachers, as well as confusion about their official seniority status and career progression.

`Seniority lists are a key administrative tool. They promote fairness, prevent disputes, and ensure that promotions and related decisions are made on the basis of objective criteria,` he said. `It is unacceptable that teachers remain unaware of their standing for years.

Prof Khosa also reiterated the longstanding demand that the position of director (colleges) be rotated between model and FG colleges to ensure equal representation. `Only someone who understands the framework and challenges of FG colleges can address these issues effectively,` he added. Ikram Junaidi