COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) Response on Controversial English Composition Quiz
Press Release
COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) Response on Controversial English Composition Quiz
A matter dated January 5, 2023, regarding an objectionable quiz was highlighted on
social media recently. The COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) has always taken academic
integrity very seriously.
In the instant case, a visiting faculty hired temporarily for a semester,
used inappropriate and unethical content in a quiz. Being not in line with the values and norms
of any educational institution, resultantly, the CUI acted as per rules and regulations, by sacking
the visiting faculty and blacklisting him for any future employment at CUI.
As per details, a visiting faculty was hired on temporary basis to teach two courses for
Fall 2022 semester at COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Islamabad Campus. The matter,
regarding the unethical contents of the quiz of the subject, English Comprehension and
Composition, was reported by the Head, Department of Humanities, CUI Islamabad Campus on
January 05, 2023.
A meeting was convened on the same day under the convenorship of the
Rector CUI where it was observed that the contents of the quiz were highly objectionable and
unethical. Keeping in view the severity of the matter, the services of visiting faculty were
immediately terminated, and he was blacklisted for any future employment at CUI.
It is important to note that as per practice each course is evaluated during a semester
through a minimum of four quizzes, four assignments, a mid-term exam, and a final
examination. As per practice, final and mid-term exams are submitted in sealed envelopes by a
faculty member to the Head of Department.
However, “quizzes” announced or unannounced,
are conducted by a faculty member during the scheduled classes without any external
moderation, similar to any other university.
In this specific instance, the quiz (not exam) was given solely by the visiting faculty
member as per practice. Nevertheless, keeping in view the rules, regulations, ethical and
cultural values of the University, a severe action was taken right away by terminating the
services of visiting faculty member from the university with immediate effect and blacklisting him
for any future employment at CUI.
It is pertinent to mention that the visiting faculty has already
confessed the grave mistake and termed it an oversight and has extended apology verbally as
well as in writing.
It is important to mention that CUI is committed to ensuring delivery of quality education.
CUI have clear policies and procedures in place to prevent academic misconduct, and expect
that all members of our academic community adhere to these standards. CUI will not tolerate
any behavior that undermines the academic integrity of our university. CUI would like to assure
our students, parents, faculty, and staff that we take matters of academic integrity seriously. CUI
will continue to work hard to maintain high academic standards, keeping in view the cultural
context of Pakistan.
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