The Punjab Higher Education Department (HED) revoked the autonomy of 18 colleges across the province at the request of teachers. As a result, these colleges will now receive government funding in the same manner as other public colleges.
Colleges in various districts, including Lahore, were granted autonomy in the year 2000, and their funding was suspended. Following their autonomy, these colleges were instructed to generate their own financial resources in order to run their institutions.
To generate funds for smooth operations, the autonomous colleges significantly increased tuition fees and other educational expenses, causing difficulties for parents and students.
However, in response to the provincial cabinet’s decision, a notice was issued stating that the autonomy of 18 colleges has been abolished.
Separately, the Punjab government is reportedly one step away from regularising thousands of contract teachers working in schools and colleges across the province.
The provincial government’s Special Ministerial Committee recently approved the recommendation to regularise 14,055 contract teachers in government-run schools and colleges. The provincial cabinet’s approval is now the only thing that remains.
