Aitchison College principal Michael resigns over ‘political interference’

Lahore: Michael A. Thomson, the principal of Aitchison College, Lahore, Monday resigned from his post over political interference in the educational institutions.

According to the reports, the Principal was under pressure over the waiver of fees for the sons of federal minister.

Along with announcing his resignation, Atchison College Principal Michael A. Thomson wrote a letter to staff saying nepotism and politics have no place in schools.

The principal further wrote that the college tried hard to save its reputation but disastrous changes in policies were made for the sake of a few and the system of governance was destroyed due to partisan actions.

Michael A. Thomson stated that an intervention like this is absurd for a successful school. Due to extremely poor governance, ‘I have no choice but to resign’. Leaving school on April 1 will not be part of admissions activities.

It is pertinent to note that Thomas had previously faced political pressure over admissions in 2018, prompting a temporary resignation which he later withdrew after persuasion from then Governor Muhammad Sarwar.

Notably, Thomas' tenure had been marked by controversies, such as the expulsion of Azlan Khan, son of former Member of National Assembly (MNA) Kashmala Tariq.