Aitchison College principal steps down over ‘favoritism’ towards Ahad Cheema’s sons

LAHORE: Aitchison College’s Principal, Michael A Thomson has submitted his resignation following the Punjab Governor’s directive to exempt the fees for the sons of Federal Minister Ahad Cheema.

The governor’s order came after Cheema’s wife appealed for the waiver, resulting in the fees being waived for three years.

Thomson announced his departure in a letter to the college staff, expressing his resignation would be effective from April 1, and he would not engage in the college’s management or admissions process thereafter.

Thomson clarified that his decision to resign stemmed from his inability to condone preferential treatment being granted to certain individuals, which he views as a departure from the college’s principles.

He highlighted the erosion of the college’s policy to accommodate specific individuals and criticized the intrusion of politics and nepotism. Thomson lamented the interference from the Governor House, which he believes has compromised governance and management standards.

In his letter, Thomson also mentioned the exemption granted to Cheema’s family from paying tuition fees, citing a directive from the Governor’s House. Additionally, he revoked the admission of Cheema’s sons after they failed to join the school following their leave period, only for the governor to overturn his decision.

Contrary to claims, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar clarified that Cheema’s sons had not attended Aitchison College for three years, hence were not liable to pay fees during that period. He emphasized that the decision to waive the fees was made in accordance with the college’s regulations.

The governor countered allegations by stating that Cheema’s relocation to Islamabad due to his posting rendered his children unable to attend the college, hence the request for fee exemption for the unused period.

He also scrutinized Thomson’s actions, alleging excessive absences and a high salary, prompting an audit into his earnings.

In summary, Thomson’s resignation follows a series of controversies surrounding preferential treatment and fee exemptions at Aitchison College, with allegations exchanged between the principal and the Punjab Governor.