The financial constraints imposed on universities will have severe repercussions on the educational landscape – FAPUASA
From Correspondent
Islamabad
The Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Association (FAPUASA) has expressed deep concern and disappointment over the federal government’s failure to increase the budget for higher education in Pakistan.
“Despite FAPUASA’s earnest appeal for a substantial increase, the government has neglected the urgent needs of universities by not allocating a single rupee for the recurring budget and only providing a marginal increase of 4 billion rupees for the development budget,” a statement said on Friday.
FAPUASA, representing the academic staff of universities across the country, had strongly advocated for a recurring budget of 500 billion rupees to meet the operational requirements of the institutions. Furthermore, FAPUASA emphasized the need for a development budget of 200 billion rupees to address infrastructure and research needs. “Regrettably, the government’s inaction jeopardizes the future of higher education in Pakistan, impeding the ability of universities to fulfill their obligations, including the payment of salaries and pensions.”
“The financial constraints imposed on universities will have severe repercussions on the educational landscape. If universities are unable to meet their basic financial requirements, it will force faculty members and employees to protest throughout the year. Such unrest will disrupt academic activities and hinder the pursuit of knowledge and research, which are essential for the progress and development of our nation.”
In addition to the insufficient budget allocation for recurring expenses, FAPUASA also highlighted the issue of hyperinflation in the country. “While the government has taken a step in the right direction by granting a 30 percent increase in salaries, it must be acknowledged that this increase does not adequately address the rising cost of living.”
FAPUASA had requested a 50 percent increase in salaries to mitigate the effects of hyperinflation on the academic community.
FAPUASA Pakistan urged the federal government to immediately reconsider its decision and allocate a substantial budget for universities. “The future of our higher education institutions hangs in the balance, and without adequate financial support, they risk deterioration and decay. Investing in education is a long-term commitment to the progress and prosperity of our nation, and neglecting this vital sector will have grave consequences.”
FAPUASA Pakistan once again called upon the government to fulfill its responsibility towards higher education and increase the budget allocation for universities. It is imperative that immediate action is taken to safeguard the future of our academic institutions and ensure the continued development of Pakistan’s intellectual capital.
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