The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has dismissed an assistant professor after an inquiry uncovered serious academic fraud. The investigation found that he allegedly used fraudulent means to obtain qualifications, awards and a government position.
The case involves Mujahid Umar, who served at Government Science College. According to the inquiry findings, he remained in the education sector for nearly three decades before authorities discovered the alleged irregularities.
Assistant Professor Accused of Examination Fraud
The HEC said Umar arranged for another person to take his intermediate and graduation examinations on his behalf.
The inquiry found that he did not personally appear in those examinations. Instead, another individual reportedly sat for the exams under his identity.
The investigation also uncovered issues involving the academic documents he submitted. Authorities subsequently determined that his educational qualifications were not valid.
Gold Medal and Scholarship Obtained Through Forged Documents
According to the inquiry report, Umar also obtained the Quaid-e-Azam Gold Medal using forged academic documents.
He was also awarded the National Talent Scholarship based on the disputed qualifications. The findings therefore extended beyond his academic record and included benefits linked to his alleged fraudulent documents.
The HEC said the investigation established irregularities in the academic credentials he used throughout his career.
Joined Education Department in 1996
The inquiry report stated that Umar joined the Education Department in 1996.
He reportedly secured the government position after submitting fraudulent academic documents. Despite the alleged irregularities, he continued working in the department for around 30 years.
During this period, he progressed through the education system and eventually reached the position of assistant professor.
The case highlights how fraudulent qualifications can remain undetected for extended periods. It also raises concerns about verification procedures for academic credentials used in government recruitment.
Degrees Cancelled After Inquiry
Following the inquiry, authorities cancelled Umar’s degrees after establishing the reported irregularities.
The HEC subsequently issued a notification terminating his employment at Government Science College. The dismissal followed the findings of the investigation into his academic record.
Authorities are also moving to recover the financial benefits linked to his employment.
Salary and Benefits to Be Recovered
The HEC said authorities will seek recovery of the salary and other benefits Umar received during his approximately 30 years of service.
The recovery process follows the cancellation of his qualifications and termination from government employment.
The case demonstrates the potential consequences of submitting fraudulent educational credentials. It also underscores the importance of thorough verification before candidates receive academic awards or government appointments.
The HEC’s action follows the inquiry’s findings and the subsequent cancellation of Umar’s degrees. Authorities will now proceed with the recovery of the payments and benefits he received during his long tenure.
