University of Karachi Students Unite in Ongoing Protests Over Rising Fees
Campus life paralyzed as demands for better infrastructure and security go unaddressed.
Protests at the University of Karachi have entered their seventh consecutive day, following failed negotiations between Vice Chancellor Dr. Khalid Iraqi and student leaders.
Thousands of students, organized under a united alliance, have initiated a strike to express their concerns over several issues, including steep fee increases, insufficient transport facilities, deteriorating infrastructure, and security threats on campus.
The ongoing protests have disrupted campus life, leading to the closure of canteens and other university services as students take to the streets, chanting slogans against the administration.
### What Are the Students’ Demands?
One of the primary grievances is the annual 10% increase in tuition fees, along with a 50% rise in late fees. Students argue that these hikes are unmanageable, especially given the declining quality of education and services. “We are compelled to pay an extra Rs5,000 each year for re-admission, yet the university’s infrastructure is crumbling,” explained a student leader.
With over 50,000 students enrolled, the University of Karachi ranks among the largest educational institutions in Pakistan. However, students contend that the facilities have not kept pace with the growing enrollment.
The university operates only 24 transport “points” (buses) for the entire student body, making daily commutes challenging for many. Additionally, students have reported an increase in security issues on campus, with motorcycles being stolen almost daily. “The security situation is deteriorating, and it seems the administration is ignoring our worries,” said another protester.
Amid these protests, the university remains in turmoil, with no clear resolution in sight.
The protesting students have pledged to continue their strike until their demands are met, exerting pressure on the administration to address the ongoing crisis.
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