In the annals of Aitchison College’s history, the tenure of Michael A. Thomson stands as a period marked by controversy, allegations, corruption and a polarizing legacy that won more critics but few supporters.
As the curtains close on his almost nine-year stint as Principal, it’s imperative to reflect on the ironies and intricacies that characterized his reign over Pakistan’s most prestigious educational institution.
Thomson’s trajectory from leading a school for street children in India to assuming the helm at Aitchison College is indeed ironic. His tenure, however, wasn’t devoid of turbulence. From the outset, his resignation letter, branding Pakistanis as corrupt, set a tone of discord.
Such statements, coming from a figure of authority, echoed the colonial-era notion of superiority, where individuals of white skin felt entitled to disparage their subordinates with impunity.
Controversies enveloped Thomson’s tenure like a shroud. His resignation maneuvers, allegedly utilized to extend his stay, and accusations of selling admission seats under the guise of donations, cast a dark shadow over his accomplishments.
Critics contend that the surge in revenue under his stewardship was not a testament to institutional growth but rather a byproduct of unethical practices. The number of the children increased from 2000 to 3200 during his tenure, which definitely increased the revenue but it gave more impunity to the influential to win seats for their children with their wealth.
The allegation of nepotism and favoritism looms large. Instances where children of college staffers and wealthy influential gained admission without due process, purportedly through donations, underscore the erosion of meritocracy. Moreover, accusations of fostering an environment marred by drugs and indiscipline in hostels tarnish the institution’s reputation, once a beacon of academic excellence.
The handling of controversies further illuminates Thomson’s tenure. The case of Amna Kamran, embroiled in allegations of academic fraud and misconduct, raises questions about accountability and integrity.
Thomson’s leniency in allowing Kamran to rectify her academic credentials amidst allegations of misconduct hints at a culture of impunity under his leadership. Actually, Amna Kamran and Thonson were in hand and glove to run rampage while the former preyed on young students to fulfill her ulterior desires. She was at the centre of a sex scandal in the institution couple of years back.
The accusation of linguistic marginalization adds another layer to the critique against Thomson. Postponing the Urdu paper indefinitely since 2020, allegedly due to COVID-19, underscores a disregard for the national language. This move, perceived as emblematic of a broader disdain for cultural and linguistic diversity, exacerbates tensions within the institution.
The transformation of the college’s infrastructure under Thomson’s tenure also invites scrutiny. The expansion of the canteen and the alleged facade-swapping of the admin block to appease influential Board figures epitomize misplaced priorities. Such actions, driven by personal agendas rather than institutional development, betray a lack of foresight and integrity.
Thomson’s political maneuvers, including the hiring of individuals based on nepotistic ties and alleged manipulation of administrative processes, paint a gloomy picture of a leader entrenched in self-preservation. His purported connections with high-profile figures, exemplified by the appointment of Umer Zaman (akin to former prime minister Imran Khan) as sports director, raise questions about the institution’s independence and autonomy.
The abrupt dismissal of three key figures within the institution few years back, coupled with allegations of impropriety and prohibited activities, underscores the systemic issues plaguing Aitchison College under Thomson’s tenure. The lack of transparency and accountability in addressing these incidents highlights a culture of impunity that permeated the institution.
As Thomson bids farewell to Aitchison College, his legacy remains fraught with controversy and discontent. While his tenure may have witnessed superficial advancements, the underlying fissures of nepotism, corruption, and disregard for institutional values leave an indelible mark on the institution’s history.
Moving forward, the onus lies on Aitchison College’s stakeholders led by the Punjab Governor to undertake a thorough investigation into the allegations leveled against Thomson and institute reforms to restore integrity, accountability, and academic excellence. Only through a concerted effort to address past grievances and uphold institutional values can Aitchison College reclaim its standing as a beacon of educational excellence in Pakistan.
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