The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Peshawar University has voiced strong concerns over the provincial government's persistent neglect of public universities.
During an emergency meeting chaired by JAC President Dr Zakirullah Jan, the committee demanded that the 2025-26 provincial budget allocate at least Rs50 billion for higher education.
This funding, the JAC stated, is critical for timely payment of salaries and pensions, restoration of research and academic activities, and ensuring universities progress on a developmental trajectory.
The meeting also included presidents and general secretaries of Class III, IV, and Sanitation Staff Associations. They warned that failure to meet these demands would result in a province-wide protest movement.
Under the 18th Amendment to the Constitution, the provincial government is responsible for adequate funding of the higher education sector. JAC leaders pointed out that provinces such as Punjab and Sindh have already taken this responsibility seriously and continue to provide consistent financial support to their universities.
However, K-P's government has neglected this constitutional duty.
Universities across the province face a severe financial crisis, causing administrative, academic, and financial challenges. Delays in salaries and pensions, halted research and development, and declining academic standards have become daily realities.
The JAC also urged newly appointed vice chancellors to break their silence and demand appropriate funding from the government, warning that their silence risks the future of higher education in the province.
Dr Zakirullah Jan concluded, "We will not remain silent spectators while our educational institutions are being destroyed. The time for decisive action is now, and the ball is in the provincial government's court."
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