12 Punjab University Scholars Go Missing Abroad After Completing PhDs, Face Legal Action

LAHORE:In a serious breach of academic commitment, **12 scholars from Punjab University** who were sent abroad on **multi-million rupee scholarships** have failed to return to Pakistan after completing their **PhD degrees**, prompting the university to initiate **strict legal action**.

According to university spokesperson **Khurram Shehzad**, formal complaints are being submitted to the **Federal Investigation Agency (FIA)**. Additionally, requests are being prepared to **block the national identity cards and passports** of these scholars through the **Ministry of Interior** and **Ministry of Foreign Affairs**.

### **Breach of Contract**

The scholars were sponsored through scholarships jointly funded by the **Higher Education Commission (HEC)** and **Punjab University**, under binding agreements which required them to serve at the university for **at least five years** upon their return.

> “Despite these legally binding agreements and receiving **monthly stipends and base salaries** during their overseas education, these individuals have refused to resume their duties at Punjab University,” said Shehzad.

The university claims the defaulters now **owe millions of rupees**, and legal action is being taken to recover the outstanding amount.

### **Notable Defaulters and Amounts**

– **Farah Sattar** (GIS Center) – PKR **7 million** outstanding
– **Syed Mohsin Ali** (GIS Center) – PKR **14 million** outstanding

More names and financial details are expected to emerge as the university completes its documentation and liaises with authorities.

### **Next Steps**

In addition to blocking official documents and pursuing legal recovery, the university is also considering:
– Issuing **red notices via Interpol**
– Placing the defaulters on the **Exit Control List (ECL)** (if still in Pakistan)
– Seeking diplomatic support for **extradition or asset recovery**

### **Wider Implications**

This case not only raises concerns about **brain drain** but also underscores the **lack of enforcement mechanisms** in scholarship agreements. Experts argue that **stricter pre-departure agreements and collateral systems** should be implemented to ensure national resources are not misused.

The university has vowed to continue pursuing justice and to take similar action against any future defaulters.