KU Teachers Continue Exam Boycott Amid Financial Crisis

Over 40,000 students face difficulties as Karachi University teachers boycott exams over inadequate financial measures and rising house rent allowances.

Over 40,000 students are facing challenges due to the ongoing exam boycott by teachers at Karachi University (KU). The protest has been in place since negotiations between the university administration and the Teachers' Society have not resolved issues related to increased house ceiling rent allowance and other demands. Over 40,000 students are affected as a result of this strike.

The Karachi University Teachers' Society (KUTS) refuses to call off its protest, citing that the measures taken by the university administration to address financial concerns remain insufficient. The society believes that these ongoing negotiations have not adequately addressed their demands for better compensation and support.

The protest has significantly impacted academic activities at KU. According to sources, University administration officials informed the teachers' body about the institution's severe financial crisis. Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi wrote a detailed letter to the Sindh chief secretary seeking a grant and bailout package to alleviate the university's financial strain.

In his letter, the vice chancellor highlighted the worsening financial condition of KU and emphasized the need for immediate assistance from the provincial government. The main issue identified was the delay in implementing an 85% increase in house rent ceiling allowances announced by the federal government for federal employees as of November 1, 2025.

The teachers' body argues that delays in legitimate financial benefits to university employees are unacceptable. On the other hand, the administration contends that their demands cannot be fully met without additional funding from the provincial government. This ongoing dispute has led to administrative unrest and challenges in conducting examinations at KU.

University officials have stated that they have informed the teachers' body about the current financial crisis but emphasize that resolving this issue requires cooperation from both federal and provincial governments. The situation highlights the complex interplay between institutional needs, teacher demands, and government support in addressing pressing financial issues within higher education institutions.