AJK Prime Minister Addresses Financial Crisis at UAJK

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In a pivotal meeting held at Kashmir House, Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq spearheaded discussions aimed at resolving the pressing financial difficulties faced by the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK) in Muzaffarabad. The high-level meeting focused on finding sustainable solutions to the university’s ongoing budget deficit, a challenge shared by other state institutions as well.

The session was marked by a detailed briefing from the Secretary of Higher Education, Chaudhry Muhammad Tayyab, who provided a comprehensive overview of the financial struggles currently confronting state universities, particularly UAJK. Highlighting significant budget deficits, Tayyab presented various proposals to address these issues, which were evaluated by key attendees, including the Chief Secretary and Secretary of Finance.

Prof Dr Khawaja Basharat presented an exhaustive report on UAJK’s financial standing, outlining several factors contributing to the university’s budget shortfall. He emphasized the critical need for immediate financial intervention to stabilize the institution. Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Kaleem Abbasi also addressed the meeting, discussing the university’s challenges, including staffing and faculty concerns, and offering strategies to navigate the financial crisis.

Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq, after reviewing the presented suggestions, underscored the importance of improving governance and financial management within universities. He stressed that stringent financial discipline was essential for the long-term sustainability of educational institutions.

Recognizing the invaluable contribution of AJK’s universities, the Prime Minister commended their role in promoting quality education under challenging circumstances. He lauded the efforts of the university’s administration and faculty, remarking, “Our universities have provided commendable services in challenging times, and their leadership deserves our full support.”

Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq also reassured university officials that despite the financial difficulties, the AJK government would continue its commitment to supporting higher education. “The promotion of higher education will not be compromised,” he affirmed, promising necessary governmental assistance to help universities overcome their budget shortfalls.

As part of the immediate response, the Prime Minister announced the formation of a subcommittee comprising the Secretary of Finance, Secretary of Higher Education, and UAJK’s Director of Finance. This subcommittee is tasked with delivering a detailed report and recommendations by September 16, providing guidance for future decisions regarding financial support for all state universities.

Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Kaleem Abbasi expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister, President, and Chief Secretary for their steadfast support. He expressed optimism that the government’s assurances would alleviate concerns among the university’s faculty and staff, allowing them to refocus on their mission of delivering quality education and research.

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

The meeting marked a significant step toward securing the future of higher education in AJK, offering hope for stability at UAJK and other state institutions facing financial challenges.