FAPUASA to Protest Against Govt Neglect of Higher Education

News Desk

Islamabad: In a strong show of unity and concern, the Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Associations (FAPUASA) has approved a nationwide action plan to address the deepening crisis in the country’s higher education sector. 

The decision came during an online meeting of FAPUASA’s Executive Council held on Sunday, where representatives from across Pakistan gathered to deliberate on critical issues facing public universities.

The Council voiced strong opposition to the government’s recent withdrawal of the 25 percent tax rebate previously granted to teachers and researchers.

Members highlighted that the move, made despite record-high inflation and soaring living costs, has directly reduced the take-home salaries of faculty members. FAPUASA representatives noted that while other sectors continue to receive exemptions and relief, the academic community is being unfairly penalized.

They further expressed disappointment that their concerns were disregarded during budget talks, with the government citing IMF pressure as justification for the rollback.

Another key concern raised during the meeting was increasing political and bureaucratic interference in university affairs. 

The Council condemned recent legislative changes in various provinces—particularly the appointment of MPAs to university syndicates in Punjab and the nomination of bureaucrats as vice chancellors in Sindh—which they warned could erode institutional autonomy and compromise academic standards. 

FAPUASA described these developments as part of a disturbing trend that threatens the independence of higher education institutions.

The worsening financial situation of public universities also featured prominently in the discussions. Several universities across the country are grappling with severe budget deficits, delayed salary payments, and diminished operational capacity. 

FAPUASA called on both federal and provincial governments to immediately allocate bailout packages, set up pension funds, and ensure the timely disbursement of grants to avert institutional collapse.

In response, the Executive Council unanimously approved a nationwide action plan to mobilize academic staff and raise public awareness. The plan includes coordinated media campaigns, press conferences, general body meetings, legal consultations, and high-level engagement with key stakeholders. 

A comprehensive policy document is also being prepared to present demands regarding tax relief, financial recovery, and the restoration of university autonomy.

As part of the campaign, a schedule of nationwide protests has been approved to highlight the government’s inaction and neglect of the higher education sector.

Concluding the meeting, the Council reaffirmed its commitment to defending academic freedom and institutional integrity. FAPUASA vowed to resist all forms of political overreach and financial negligence, using all democratic means to ensure that the voices of Pakistan’s teachers and researchers are heard and respected.