The Sukkur-based institute conducting tests for various government jobs has been engaged in exploitative practices to boost its business at the expense of unemployed and impoverished candidates. This troubling trend emerged almost immediately after the provincial government awarded several projects to the institute, which has been charging exorbitant amounts in the name of fee from desperate individuals seeking to secure their future.
The initial major project entrusted to the institute was the recruitment of primary school teachers (PSTs) and junior elementary school teachers (JESTs) for the education department. Prospective candidates were required to pay a hefty challan fee of Rs700 each.
Subsequently, another project was assigned, involving the recruitment of personnel for various general administration departments across Sindh. Again, millions of people submitted a challan fee of Rs700 for each test. The tests were conducted in three categories: graduation, intermediate and matriculation.
In a new development, the institute has recently introduced a scheme to charge Rs350 for obtaining a verified certificate, claiming that the certificates will help the aspirants during the application process for various government departments.
However, it is clear that this practice will allow the institute to earn profit worth millions of rupees at the expense of the poor and the unemployed.
It is imperative that decisive action be taken to prevent such exploitative practices that undermine the principles of fairness and equal opportunity.
SALMAN AHMED LAKHO
SUKKUR
