University fee hike

In a tumultuous display of dissent, students at Karachi University took to the campus to protest the recent decision by the academic council to increase tuition fees by a staggering 30%. Led by activists from a students’ union, the protesters voiced their grievances against the administration, denouncing the decision as highly unjust and calling for its immediate reversal.

The 30% increase in student fees, set to be enforced from the next academic year, has been met with astonishment, with some deeming it as unprecedented. Critics argue that such a substantial hike is unjustifiable, especially given the limited facilities the institution provides. Reports have highlighted the precarious conditions of infrastructure, forcing students to endure substandard learning environments. Moreover, the economic landscape is marred by soaring inflation rates, creating financial hardships for individuals and families. Against this challenging backdrop, KU’s recent decision to raise tuition fees introduces an additional layer of complexity, amplifying concerns about the feasibility of pursuing higher education in these trying times. Students, often the most vulnerable in times of economic uncertainty, now find themselves facing an uphill battle as the cost of education escalates. The dream of obtaining a degree, a beacon of hope for many, risks fading away as financial barriers become insurmountable. Universities, as custodians of knowledge, bear a profound responsibility. While financial sustainability is a legitimate concern, the ethical imperative of providing accessible education cannot be sacrificed on the basis of fiscal constraints.

As the protest unfolds, it is essential for authorities to have a conversation with the affected students and find a middle ground that is between financial sustainability and the right of students. The outcome of this will not only shape the immediate future of KU students but will also resonate in the broader discourse.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 4^th, 2023.

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