LAHORE: The Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Association (FAPUASA) on Tuesday called off its planned boycott of classes in higher education institutions across Punjab following assurances from the provincial government to address its demands.

FAPUASA had been protesting since last week across all provinces, opposing policies that allegedly threatened the autonomy and academic freedom of universities.

The protests highlighted demands including the restoration of leave encashment, increased recurring grants and opposition to decisions undermining institutional independence.

The FAPUASA had announced a province-wide boycott of classes starting March 11 but withdrew the strike after a meeting with Punjab Minister for Higher and School Education Rana Sikander Hayat.

A delegation led by FAPUASA President Dr Amjad Magsi, along with Central Information Secretary Dr Ahtisham Ali, PUASA Secretary Dr Muhammad Islam, and Vice President Dr Ghalib Ata, presented their grievances to the minister.

Key issues discussed included the restoration of a 25 per cent tax rebate for educators and researchers, enhanced financial sustainability for public sector universities, safeguarding of pensions and retirement benefits and reducing external interference in university operations.

The delegation also advocated for the inclusion of universities in the Disparity Reduction Allowance (DRA) policy and equity in its application across grades.

Dr Magsi stressed the importance of fair treatment for university faculty, highlighting anomalies in the initial DRA announcement that excluded autonomous institutions.

He said that extending DRA benefits to higher grades would promote equity and strengthen faculty morale.

Minister Hayat assured FAPUASA of his support and announced an initial allocation of Rs15 billion for public sector universities.

He also promised issuance of notification of the tax rebate and collaboration with the finance department to resolve DRA issues.

He also said that the government was committed to recurring grants in the next budget and recognition of grade 22 faculty members to boost academic leadership.

Published in Dawn, March 12th, 2025