The 361st meeting of the Senate of Punjab University (PU) was held on Thursday at the Senate Hall, Old Campus. The session was chaired by Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Muhammad Ali representing the Governor of Punjab as Chancellor. In this meeting, the university made a historic announcement approving scholarships worth Rs 170 million (17 crore) for students.
This initiative continues the university’s long-standing policy of supporting students facing financial difficulties.
Key Approvals from Meeting
- Approval of scholarships worth Rs 170 million.
- Rs 219,000 subsidy per student.
- Rs 150,000 additional subsidy for hostel residents.
- Establishment of an Endowment Fund for research, pensions and development projects.
- Rs 240 million saved on electricity costs in the past eight months.
- Approval of budgets for FY 2024–25 and 2025–26.
- Ratification of recommendations from the Academic Council.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali’s Message
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that Punjab University has always prioritized financial assistance to ensure that no student is forced to discontinue education due to financial burdens. He stated:
“Our commitment is that no student should be deprived of education merely because of tuition fees or financial pressures. This year, every student will directly benefit from university-provided subsidies, while hostel residents will receive additional support.”
He further revealed that the university had saved Rs 240 million in electricity costs within just eight months which will now be redirected towards student welfare and development projects.
Breakdown of Scholarships and Subsidies
| Category | Amount (PKR) | Details |
| General Student Subsidy | 219,000 per student | Reduction in tuition and educational expenses |
| Hostel Residents | 150,000 additional | Support for accommodation and living costs |
| Total Scholarships | 170,000,000 | Allocated budget for year 2025 |
| Electricity Savings | 240,000,000 | To be invested in research and development |
Launch of Strategic Plan
In this meeting, Punjab University also unveiled its first-ever Strategic Plan which includes:
- Educational Reforms: Curriculum updates aligned with modern requirements.
- Financial Discipline: Transparency and thesavings will be given priority in budgeting.
- Administrative Improvements: Governance structures will be made more effective.
Background and Impact
Punjab University is one of the oldest universities in Pakistan. In the past, the institute has also been providing fee waivers, scholarships and research grants to students. However, this latest subsidy and scholarship package is the largest in its history.
Potential Impacts:
- Students facing financial hardships will be able to continue their education.
- The cost of living will be reduced by providing additional facilities to the students staying in the hostel.
- The provision of funds for research and development will improve the university’s ranking and quality of education.
- Financial discipline and energy savings will lead the institution towards self-sustainability.
This decision of Punjab University is a positive example not only for the present students but also for the future generations. The scholarships, subsidies and strategic plan indicate that the institution is on a firm strategy to promote student welfare and higher education. This move will reduce the financial pressure within the university and make access to education even easier.
