AJK PM Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq vows no compromise on higher education amid financial struggles

ISLAMABAD, Sep 15 (SABAH): In a significant move to address the financial difficulties faced by the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK), Muzaffarabad, Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq, chaired a high-level meeting at Kashmir House, Islamabad. The meeting aimed to find sustainable solutions to the ongoing budget deficit of the university and other state institutions.

During the briefing, Secretary of Higher Education Chaudhry Muhammad Tayyab provided an in-depth overview of the financial challenges currently faced by state universities, particularly UAJK, highlighting budget deficits. The Secretary outlined several proposals to address the issues, which were discussed and evaluated by the attendees, including the Chief Secretary and Secretary of Finance.

Prof. Dr. Khawaja Basharat presented a comprehensive report on UAJK’s financial position, pointing to various factors contributing to the university’s budget shortfall. He emphasized the need for immediate action to stabilize the institution’s finances. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kaleem Abbasi spoke in detail about the challenges faced by the university, including faculty and staffing concerns, and proposed strategies to overcome the financial hurdles.

Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq, while reviewing the suggestions presented, emphasized the urgent need for universities to strengthen their governance and financial management systems. He stressed the importance of adopting stringent financial discipline at all levels to ensure long-term stability.

Acknowledging the valuable contributions made by AJK universities in promoting quality education despite adverse circumstances, the Prime Minister praised the tireless efforts of the university administration and faculty. He expressed deep appreciation for their role in advancing higher education in the region, saying, “Our universities have provided commendable services in challenging times, and their leadership deserves our full support.”

While discussing the broader financial challenges faced by the AJK government, Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq reassured university officials that the government remains fully committed to supporting higher education. “The promotion of higher education will not be compromised, despite financial difficulties,” he stated, assuring that the AJK government would provide the necessary assistance to help universities overcome their budget deficits.

To ensure swift action, the Prime Minister announced the formation of a subcommittee, comprising the Secretary of Finance, Secretary of Higher Education, and UAJK’s Director of Finance, tasked with presenting a detailed report and recommendations by September 16. This report will also guide future decisions on how the government can support all state universities in managing their financial challenges.

In conclusion, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kaleem Abbasi expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister, President/Chancellor, and Chief Secretary for their unwavering support. He conveyed his optimism that the Prime Minister’s assurances would help alleviate the uncertainty currently felt by the university’s faculty and staff, allowing them to refocus on their core mission of delivering high-quality education and research.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including Minister for Higher Education Malik Zafar Iqbal, Advisor to the President, Sardar Imtiaz Ahmad, Chief Secretary Daud Muhammad Bareech, Vice Chancellor of UAJK Prof. Dr. Muhammad Kaleem Abbasi, Secretary of Presidential Affairs Muhammad Idrees Abbasi, and Secretary of Higher Education Chaudhry Muhammad Tayyab. Joining via video link were Secretary of Finance Islam Zaib Khan and UAJK Director of Finance Prof. Dr. Khawaja Basharat.