THE sorry state of affairs prevailing at the Khyber Medical University (KMU), Peshawar, the only public medical university in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), is alarming. Established in January 2007, the institution plays a critical role in providing medical education in the region, encompassing several constituent colleges and institutes, and medical, dental and various allied health sciences programmes at affiliated undergraduate and postgra- duate levels. KMU’s extensive network includes 17 affiliated medical colleges as well.

The administration has seemingly transformed the university into a mere profit-driven entity at the cost of decline in the quality of education and student welfare. Basic facilities are lacking, research funds are insufficient, and there is no provision for student accommodation. The exorbitant fee structure adds to the financial burden on the students. Junior faculty members, who are seriously underpaid, have ceased teaching due to administrative problems.

The higher-ups at KMU, focussed on extending their tenure, have failed to advocate for the necessary support from the provincial government. Consequently, the educational standards and student experience have significantly deteriorated.

The university administration, along with the provincial government, should take immediate and effective steps to address the issues. KMU’s role as a public institution is to prioritise education and student welfare over profit. It should focus on its core responsibilities.

Dr Shafee Khorasanee
Peshawar

Published in Dawn, July 17th, 2024