The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has announced an immediate nationwide ban on the establishment and operation of university sub-campuses at the tehsil level, citing deep-rooted concerns over academic quality, sustainability, and student outcomes.
The decision comes after a comprehensive review conducted by the commission, which concluded that most tehsil-level sub-campuses are not viable as credible academic institutions. According to officials, these campuses have consistently struggled to meet fundamental standards required for higher education delivery.
Among the major issues identified were the persistent inability to recruit and retain qualified PhD faculty, low student enrolment numbers, and a limited portfolio of academic programmes. The review also highlighted serious deficiencies in academic and technical infrastructure, further undermining the educational experience offered at such campuses.
Under the new directive, all universities and degree-awarding institutions across Pakistan are now prohibited from establishing, advertising, or operating new sub-campuses at the tehsil level. Additionally, all pending proposals for such campuses have been suspended with immediate effect.
The commission has issued a stern warning regarding compliance, stating that strict regulatory action will be taken against institutions that violate the directive. Responsibility for adherence has been placed directly on university leadership, signaling a tougher enforcement stance by the regulator.
This move follows years of rapid expansion in the higher education sector, during which universities extended their footprint into smaller administrative units across the country. While this expansion aimed to improve access to education, critics have long argued that it often came at the expense of academic standards, with many campuses lacking essential resources and qualified staff.
Officials suggest that the ban represents a broader shift in policy direction, as the commission seeks to prioritize quality over unchecked growth. The development is being viewed as a significant course correction, with further quality assurance measures for the higher education sector reportedly under consideration.
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The latest decision underscores increasing pressure on regulatory authorities to ensure that the expansion of higher education in Pakistan is aligned with international academic standards and delivers meaningful outcomes for students.
