PIPOS runs four years without permanent MD

In its latest notification, issued on June 8, 2026, the PIPOS Board of Management assigned Consultant Prosthetist and Orthotist Abid Ali the additional

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Institute of Prosthetic and Orthotic Sciences (PIPOS) continues to function without a permanent Managing Director, with the institution relying on acting and additional-charge arrangements for the past four years.

In its latest notification, issued on June 8, 2026, the PIPOS Board of Management assigned Consultant Prosthetist and Orthotist Abid Ali the additional charge of Managing Director alongside his existing responsibilities.

The notification, issued under reference No. 348/PIPOS/26, said the arrangement had been made as a “stop-gap arrangement in the best public interest.” It will remain effective until a regular Managing Director is appointed or further orders are issued, whichever comes first.

Sources within the institution told Minute Mirror that PIPOS has repeatedly operated under temporary leadership over the past four years, raising concerns about continuity, institutional governance and long-term planning.

Officials and critics have questioned why a permanent head has not been appointed despite the prolonged nature of the arrangement. They argue that continued reliance on additional-charge officers can affect strategic decision-making, administrative efficiency and the institute’s ability to undertake long-term initiatives.

PIPOS, headquartered in Peshawar, is a key national institution involved in education, training and rehabilitation services in the field of prosthetics and orthotics. Its work is particularly important for people requiring assistive and rehabilitation services.

The latest notification has been circulated among members of the Board of Management, heads of departments, the Director Finance, Manager IT and heads of PIPOS centres.

The continued absence of a regular Managing Director has renewed calls for the competent authorities to complete the appointment process and provide the institution with stable and permanent leadership.