UoP financial crisis

The University of Peshawar (UoP) finds itself entangled in a recurring financial crisis, once again struggling to meet its financial obligations, including employee salaries for the month of August. The university management has reached out to the HEC, urging the provincial government to release funds to mitigate the financial turmoil. This situation not only exposes the university’s financial fragility but also underscores the need for systematic reforms in governance and accountability.

UoP’s plea for funds highlights the gravity of its financial challenges. It requires Rs325 million to address immediate concerns, with Rs200 million earmarked for employee salaries and Rs35 million for electricity expenses. The need to allocate Rs100 million for pension payments and Rs20 million for miscellaneous costs further illuminates the university’s precarious financial position. The acting Vice-Chancellor rightly warns that the consequences of non-payment extend beyond employee hardships, potentially affecting overall university operations. These financial troubles prompt essential questions about the effectiveness of the regulatory framework governing Pakistani universities. While the Universities Act of 2012 envisions transparent and accountable governance, recent events at UoP reveal a disconnect between legal mandates and practical implementation.

To rectify this situation, a multi-pronged approach is imperative. Ensuring transparent governance, financial prudence and quality education should be the cornerstones of reform efforts. Establishing key performance indicators for VCs and individual universities can enhance educational outcomes. In conjunction with these reforms, addressing past financial irregularities is crucial. An accountability mechanism must be established to rectify past mismanagement and prevent future occurrences. The trajectory of our educational institutions hinges on prudent action. Institutional integrity is not merely an administrative concern but a pivotal factor in the quality of education and the nation’s advancement.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 25^th, 2023.

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