LAHORE: The teachers from public universities across Punjab on Thursday observed a black day in protest against the government’s recent policies, including the abolition of a 25pc tax rebate, new pension rules and leave encashment.

The Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Associations (FAPUASA) had given the call for the protest against the government policies that undermined the welfare of the teachers and threatened autonomy of the universities.

Protest rallies were held at various universities, including the Punjab University, Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan, University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore, Islamia University Bahawalpur, UET Taxila, NTU Faisalabad, Government College University (GCU) Faisalabad, University of Okara and GCU Lahore. Participants raised slogans in favour of their demands.

FAPUASA Central President Dr Amjad Abbas Magsi led the rally at PU while FAPUASA Punjab chapter President Dr Khawar Nawazish led the protest at BZU Multan.

Addressing the protesters, Dr Magsi emphasized the importance of government support for the teaching community and educational institutions, stating that the country cannot progress without special attention to these sectors.

Dr Nawazish highlighted the financial challenges faced by public universities that relied on government grants to operate. He warned that without adequate financial support, access to education for the masses would be jeopardised. He also criticized the government’s decision to abolish the 25pc tax rebate for teachers as it would demoralize them.

UET Teaching Staff Association (TSA) also observed the black day at all campuses.

TSA President Dr Muhammad Shoaib expressed concerns at the worsening condition of the educational sector.

TSA General Secretary Dr Tanveer Qasim also spoke.

Published in Dawn, March 7th, 2025