Afridi urges viable steps for financial self-sufficiency of UoP and improvement of student facilities
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi. Photo: Archive
PESHAWAR:
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi paid an informal and unannounced visit to the Department of Economics, University of Peshawar, interacting directly with students and discussing the overall academic environment and related issues.
During the visit, the Chief Minister tasked the Vice-Chancellor to come up with viable proposals to make the university financially self-reliant. Highlighting the provincial government’s commitment to promoting education, research and youth welfare initiatives, Afridi criticized the federal government’s alleged corruption, noting that a “corrupt cabal” at the center had inflicted serious damage on Pakistan’s economy, with historic corruption amounting to Rs 5,300 billion affecting the entire nation.
Afridi emphasized that, on the contrary, the provincial government prioritizes public funds for the well-being and development of its people, taking concrete measures even in the face of discriminatory practices by the federal government.
He noted that if the province receives its entitlements in a timely manner, ongoing development efforts could be significantly accelerated.
Referring to federal dues, the Chief Minister revealed that over Rs 2,200 billion in net profits from hydropower are due to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, along with Rs 1,375 billion under the NFC award for the merged districts.
Despite a promised annual allocation of Rs 100 billion for the merged districts, only Rs 168 billion has been disbursed in seven years, leaving Rs 532 billion outstanding. Additionally, billions remain owed in water charges.
Afridi urged the students, particularly the youth, to raise their voices for the constitutional and legitimate rights of the province. He highlighted the importance of holding discussions at all universities on provincial rights to raise awareness and empower students to actively advocate for their region.
Addressing security concerns, the Chief Minister commented that earlier decisions behind closed doors had caused irreparable damage, but the current government is committed to ensuring peace, stability and development.
He also criticized economic performance under the current federal government, noting that GDP growth fell from 6.2 percent under the previous administration to 2.6 percent, reflecting failed economic policies.
On the educational front, Afridi called for proposals to provide subsidized meals to students residing in university hostels, announced improvements in the computer laboratory of the Department of Economics and unveiled a Rs 53 million solarization project for the departments of Economics, Political Science and IM Studies to improve the learning environment. He added that special scholarships and financial packages for students would be included in the upcoming budget, along with an accelerated internship policy to create employment opportunities for youth.
The Chief Minister concluded by encouraging students to work hard, be conscious and determined, emphasizing that the future of the province is in the hands of its youth and the government is committed to supporting them at all levels.
