Teachers of public universities have demanded a 300% increase in the higher education budget for 2026-27, warning that the financial crisis in universities could become severe without immediate government relief.
The All Public Universities Teachers Association said the higher education budget has not been effectively increased since 2018, leaving universities under pressure and affecting teaching and research activities.
The All Public Universities Teachers Association has expressed serious concern over the worsening financial condition of public universities. The association said many universities are facing difficulties in paying salaries and pensions due to the lack of adequate funds.
Teachers warned that the crisis could intensify if immediate financial support is not provided.
Demand for 300% budget increase
University teachers have urged the federal government to increase the higher education budget by 300% in the upcoming fiscal year. They said the issue of higher education funding must be addressed in Budget 2026-27 to prevent further damage to academic institutions.
According to APUBTA, the sector has remained neglected for years despite growing financial needs.
Budget not effectively increased since 2018
The teachers’ body said the higher education budget has not seen an effective increase since 2018. It argued that rising costs, inflation and expanding university needs have made the existing allocations insufficient.
The association said the lack of funding is now directly affecting the quality of education and research.
According to university teachers, institutions in Islamabad are among the worst affected by the financial crisis. They demanded special funds for Quaid-e-Azam University, International Islamic University and Urdu University.
Teachers said these institutions need urgent support to meet operational expenses and continue academic activities smoothly.
Teaching and research badly hit
The association said the shortage of funds has badly affected teaching and research in public universities. Faculty members warned that continued neglect of higher education would harm students, researchers and the country’s academic future.
They described underfunding of universities as a threat to the future of the new generation.
APUBTA called on the federal and provincial governments to jointly address the financial problems of universities. The association said coordinated action is needed to stabilize higher education institutions and protect academic standards.
Teachers stressed that without immediate relief, universities may face a deeper and more difficult crisis in the months ahead.
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