JSMU issues separate notifications on Dr Nighat Shah’s retirement

Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) has issued two separate notifications regarding the retirement and subsequent

Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) has issued two separate notifications regarding the retirement and subsequent contractual appointment of Professor Dr Nighat Shah, daughter of former Sindh chief minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah.

According to the university’s notifications, Dr Nighat Shah retired from government service on August 12, 2026, but was allowed to continue working at the university as a Professor of Gynaecology (BPS-21) for another three years on a contractual basis.

The two notifications were issued separately. One formally announced her retirement, while the other approved her immediate appointment on a three-year contract following her retirement.

According to the retirement notification issued by JSMU Registrar Dr Azam Khan, Dr Nighat Shah, who was serving as Professor of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in BPS-21 as well as Pro-Vice Chancellor, retired from government service with effect from the afternoon of August 12.

The notification also referred to an earlier order dated October 6, 2025, under which she had been appointed Pro-Vice Chancellor of the university. Her tenure as Pro-Vice Chancellor was linked to her period of government service and was therefore due to end upon her retirement.

However, a separate notification issued by the university states that, following a decision by the Sindh government and approval from the competent authority, the Syndicate, Dr Nighat Shah was permitted to continue her services at JSMU as Professor of Gynaecology for three years on a contractual basis.

The new contract will take effect from August 13, 2026, just one day after her retirement from government service.

The arrangement means that, according to the university’s own notifications, Dr Nighat Shah formally retired from government employment on August 12 but resumed her professional duties at the same institution without any break from August 13 under a three-year contractual appointment.

The development has drawn attention because of the timing of the two notifications, with the retirement order followed immediately by the contractual appointment.

Dr Nighat Shah was appointed Pro-Vice Chancellor of JSMU in October 2025. Her new contractual role, however, is specifically as Professor of Gynaecology rather than as Pro-Vice Chancellor.

The three-year contract will allow her to continue teaching and providing academic and professional services at the university until the completion of the approved contractual period, subject to the terms and conditions of her appointment.