DLP Report
PESHAWAR
A high-level inquiry into alleged fake degrees and financial irregularities at Gomal University has uncovered 514 suspicious degrees, prompting disciplinary action against key officials and widening the scope of investigations into the institution’s affairs.
According to an official statement issued by the Higher Education Department (HED) here on Wednesday, the alleged irregularities relate to the period between 2019 and 2023 and were identified during an internal review conducted by the university administration.
Authorities said the university syndicate had suspended the former director of affiliation over his alleged role in the degree scandal, while action had also been initiated against a former controller of examinations.
Officials added that hundreds of degrees had been declared suspicious in official records and recommendations had been made for their cancellation following the completion of legal and administrative procedures.
The inquiry has also examined allegations of financial mismanagement and misappropriation of funds. A new investigation committee has been constituted to conduct a comprehensive review of the allegations and determine responsibility.
The developments come amid a broader accountability drive in higher educational institutions initiated by the provincial government. Officials said the process was being monitored under directives aimed at strengthening transparency and governance in public universities.
Provincial Minister for Higher Education Mina Khan Afridi has said that individuals found involved in wrongdoing would be held accountable in accordance with the law.
“The higher education system will be cleansed of corruption and the fake degree mafia,” the minister said, adding that strict action would be taken against those responsible for compromising students’ futures.
He said the accountability process would continue under the leadership of Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi and that reforms were being pursued to improve governance and public confidence in higher education institutions.
Officials said investigations were continuing and that further action would be taken in light of the inquiry’s findings.
