University of Punjab reopens hostels during Eid holidays after outcry

LAHORE: The University of Punjab (UoP) issued a clarification on Monday regarding the closure of its boys’ and girls’ hostels during the upcoming Eid ul-Fitr and spring holidays.

The clarification was issued following protests from students concerned about accommodation during the stated period.

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In a notification dated March 20, the University of Punjab registrar announced that all hostels would be closed from March 28 – specifically 4 pm onwards – until April 7. Re-entry into the hostels would only be permitted from April 8.

The decision was met with huge backlash from the students, particularly those from remote areas of the country facing issues in returning home for the holidays.

In response to the protests, the university released a clarification four days later, which outlined a ‘relaxation’ for students classified as ‘legal resident students’.

The designation applies to those from ‘far-flung’ areas and provinces outside Pakistan who are unable to return home due ot unavoidable circumstances.

The clarification instructed these students to apply for exemption or relaxation to remain in their hostels through their ‘respective heads’ or ‘hostel wardens’.

The university stated that while the general closure of hostels would remain in effect, only students meeting the ‘specified criteria’ would be allowed to stay.

Founded in 1882, the University of the Punjab is the oldest and largest public sector university in province. It is also recognised as one of the most ‘prestigious’ institutions in South Asia.

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The university has a current enrolment of approximately 45,678 students, including 27,907 in morning programmes, 16,552 in evening programmes and 1,219 diploma courses.

The University of the Punjab comprises 19 faculties and 138 academic departments, research centres and institutes.