Students at the Abbottabad campus of COMSATS University Islamabad are worried about their future. The campus is facing a possible shutdown because the permanent campus project has stopped due to lack of government funds.
The university currently operates from a leased site at Tobe Camp, owned by the Pakistan Army. It has around 6,000 students studying in different programs. A plan was made to move everyone to a new, modern campus. The project, costing Rs 3.49 billion, was approved in May 2021 by the Central Development Working Party (CDWP). It aimed to build modern facilities covering over 324,000 square feet.
However, the project has not received funds under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) of the Ministry of Science and Technology. As a result, most construction work remains incomplete. University officials warn that without quick funding, academic activities could be badly affected.
Students and parents are in shock. Many fear the campus may close or classes may be shifted elsewhere, disrupting their studies. Faculty members are also concerned about job security and the quality of education.
The situation highlights problems in higher education funding in Pakistan. Education experts urge the government to release funds immediately so the campus can continue serving students in Abbottabad. The university is hopeful that authorities will act soon to save this important institution.
