ISLAMABAD – July 2025:
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has approved a policy to continue providing health benefits to its employees and their spouses, including those serving on contract, despite ongoing financial difficulties facing the higher education sector in Pakistan.
This decision was made during the 44th official meeting of the Commission, chaired by HEC Chairman Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed. According to the newly adopted policy, not only will contract-based employees remain eligible for health benefits, but senior officials such as the Chairperson and Executive Director will also continue to receive the same medical privileges.
Controversy Amidst Cuts
The move has sparked debate within academic and policy circles. Critics argue that the continuation of post-contract benefits—especially for temporary staff—may not be sustainable given the existing budgetary constraints. Some university administrators and education stakeholders believe such perks should be reassessed in the context of the broader funding challenges facing public universities.
“This might send the wrong message when many universities are struggling to pay staff or maintain essential academic programs,” said an academic analyst who wished to remain anonymous.
Budget Cuts Threaten Higher Education
Pakistan’s higher education sector is currently grappling with an acute financial crunch. For the fiscal year 2025, the government has capped the HEC’s annual budget at Rs. 39.48 billion, a significant decrease when compared to Rs. 46.23 billion allocated in 2018.
This freeze in funding comes at a time when inflation is driving up operational costs for universities across the country. From rising utility bills to increased costs for academic materials and infrastructure maintenance, the funding shortfall is hitting institutions hard.
Calls for Education Emergency
Educationists and policy experts are now urging the federal government to treat the situation as an urgent national issue. Many have called for the declaration of an official “education emergency”, demanding increased public investment in the higher education sector to ensure that no student is left behind due to financial or institutional barriers.
“Without immediate and substantial intervention, Pakistan risks undermining the future of its youth,” warned one education policy researcher. “A well-funded HEC is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for national development.”
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the government will respond to these calls for urgent action, or whether the higher education sector will continue to bear the brunt of financial austerity.
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