Islamabad, Pakistan – In a significant move to expand access to higher education and address regional disparities, the Federal Government of Pakistan has earmarked over Rs. 9 billion for the development of five new public sector universities across the country. This allocation is part of the upcoming Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) ahead of the federal budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, signaling a renewed focus on academic infrastructure despite existing financial challenges in the higher education sector.
The initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities in diverse regions, with specific allocations for projects that have been in various stages of approval and development for several years. This push for new institutions comes at a time when many existing public sector universities are grappling with severe financial constraints, highlighting the government’s dual approach of both expansion and consolidation.
Locations and Allocations:
Five universities and their respective allocations are:
- University of Gwadar: Receiving the highest allocation of Rs. 2.49 billion, this project was approved by the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) in 2022. Its establishment underscores a strategic focus on educational development in Balochistan, a key region for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
- University of Sahiwal: Allocated Rs. 1.37 billion, the University of Sahiwal’s project received approval from the Departmental Development Working Party (DDWP) in 2020.
- Women University Bagh, Azad Jammu and Kashmir: This institution is set to receive Rs. 1.80 billion. Its project had secured CDWP approval as far back as 2016, indicating a long-term commitment to women’s education in the region.
- FATA University: With an allocation of Rs. 1.76 billion, FATA University’s project was approved by the DDWP in 2020, focusing on educational uplift in the erstwhile Federally Administered Tribal Areas.
- University of Chitral: This university has been allocated Rs. 1.72 billion, following DDWP approval in 2020. Its establishment aims to provide higher education access in the remote northern region.
Addressing the Higher Education Landscape:
The establishment of these new universities is a part of broader efforts to increase the enrollment rate and enhance the quality of education across Pakistan. For years, the higher education sector has faced significant funding shortfalls, with the Higher Education Commission (HEC) reporting a shortfall of Rs. 60 billion in recent years. This has led to financial difficulties for many existing public universities, impacting their ability to pay salaries, conduct research, and maintain infrastructure.
While the government is investing in new institutions, it also acknowledges the need to address the financial woes of existing universities. Discussions are ongoing regarding increasing the budgetary allocation for education to at least 4% of the GDP in the upcoming budget for FY 2025-26.
Beyond these five, other new educational initiatives are also underway. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, for instance, recently announced the construction of the Daanish University of Applied and Emerging Sciences in Islamabad, utilizing £190 million repatriated from the UK government. This university aims to provide high-quality research-based learning opportunities, particularly to deserving students.
The government’s push for new universities reflects a commitment to expanding educational access, especially in underserved areas. However, the success of this initiative will largely depend on sustained funding, effective management, and a comprehensive strategy that not only builds new institutions but also strengthens and adequately supports the existing higher education infrastructure across Pakistan.
