Karachi University Exam Boycott Enters Second Month, 50,000 Students Face Uncertainty
Karachi: Nearly 50,000 students at the University of Karachi are facing uncertainty and mental stress as a boycott of semester examinations by university teachers has continued for over a month.
The boycott began on May 5, with faculty members refusing to participate in evening classes, paper checking, examination supervision, question paper setting, examination duties, house ceiling payments, leave encashment-related work, and other academic activities in protest against the non-payment of their dues.
Amid the ongoing financial and administrative crisis, teachers, officers, and employees staged a protest outside the university’s Administration Block, demanding the immediate release of outstanding payments.
Demonstrators carried placards and banners highlighting their demands and accused the university administration of financial mismanagement and administrative inefficiency, which they said had severely disrupted academic and administrative affairs.
Teachers stated that unpaid dues, including house ceiling payments, arrears, and other benefits, have remained pending for an extended period, creating serious financial difficulties for employees.
According to faculty representatives, the continued protest has resulted in the suspension of examinations, significantly affecting students’ academic plans and future prospects.
Students and parents have expressed concern that further delays could disrupt the academic calendar, shorten the semester duration, and potentially lead to the cancellation of scheduled vacations.
Many students said they had paid their fees on time but were still unable to continue their studies normally. They complained that there is no clear information regarding examinations, semester schedules, or responsibility for resolving the crisis.
Students also criticized the lack of effective intervention by the provincial authorities, including the Sindh government, to address the situation.
Meanwhile, the Karachi University Teachers’ Society acknowledged that students are the most affected stakeholders in the ongoing dispute and blamed administrative failures for the worsening crisis.
Faculty members have demanded an investigation into the university’s financial affairs and vowed to continue their protest until their demands are met.
