DLP Report
ISLAMABAD
The Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Associations (FAPUSA) has announced a “Black Day” on January 30th to protest critical issues plaguing the higher education sector, including the abolition of the 25 percent tax rebate for teachers, government interference in university autonomy, changes in pension rules, non-payment of salaries in universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, and alterations in the appointment process for vice-chancellors in Sindh universities.
FAPUSA leaders, including Central President Dr Amjad Magsi, General Secretary Dr Muhammad Uzair, Vice President Dr Mazhar Iqbal, and Information Secretary Dr Ehtesham Ali, held a press conference at the Islamabad Press Club to outline their grievances and demands.
Dr Amjad Magsi strongly criticized the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) decision to abolish the 25pc tax rebate for teachers and researchers.
He noted that the rebate, initially 75pc, was gradually reduced, despite assurances from the Federal Finance Minister during the June 28, 2024, budget speech that it would be maintained.
The removal of this exemption mid-financial year has caused widespread disappointment, with FAPUSA urging its immediate restoration.
FAPUSA condemned the Sindh government’s decision to change the procedure for appointing vice-chancellors, calling it an attack on university autonomy.
Dr Magsi appealed to PPP leaders Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to uphold democratic principles by restoring the original appointment process.
FAPUSA General Secretary Dr Muhammad Uzair expressed serious concerns over alleged financial irregularities in KP universities, where vice-chancellors require provincial secretary approval for faculty appointments.
He also highlighted the financial crisis in Balochistan universities, where teachers are yet to receive their salaries.
The representatives of the association demanded immediate restoration of the 25pc tax rebate, preservation of university autonomy resolution of salary issues in Balochistan and KP universities and reinstatement of the original procedure for appointing vice-chancellors in Sindh province.
The association vowed to intensify protests if their demands were not met, emphasizing the need for government intervention to safeguard the future of higher education in Pakistan.
