QAU alumni demand federal bailout amid financial crisis

ISLAMABAD: The alumni of Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) Islamabad have demanded that the federal government announce an immediate bailout package to address the financial crisis faced by Pakistan’s top-ranked higher education institution, named after the country’s founder.

“Based on its exceptional performance in the recent QS World University Ranking, the alumni called for necessary financial support to overcome an annual deficit of over Rs800 million, enabling the institution to achieve more accolades at regional and international levels,” said a press release issued by the QAU alumni.

The demand was made during a meeting of the Core Committee of the QAU Alumni Association Founders Group, chaired by Dr Abdul Basit and attended by senior Quaidians. The participants assured their utmost cooperation with QAU in resolving this critical issue, which could severely affect the day-to-day functioning and performance of this prestigious federal institution.

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“The QAU alumni, as per past practice, stand with their alma mater at this critical time, and a joint strategy will be developed in consultation with all stakeholders. It is the collective responsibility of all to save this leading federal higher education institution in Pakistan, whose alumni are rendering valuable services in various sectors both domestically and abroad.”

The meeting was informed that since January 2023, QAU has been unable to make payments for teaching, lab chemicals, pensions, students’ fellowships and scholarships, and even office stationery items.

The alumni resolved that, as the prime minister of Pakistan has recently declared an education emergency in the country, QAU should be provided with a bailout package immediately to save the future of over 12,000 enrolled students. It was unanimously decided to continue practical efforts and strengthen existing initiatives aimed at the welfare of Quaidians, promoting togetherness, positivity, and connectivity among Quaidians, and giving back to their alma mater.

Additionally, it was decided to strengthen the Quaidians Commoners Academy under the supervision of Khalid Masood, former principal secretary to the president of Pakistan, who would guide young Quaidians.