The Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Associations (FAPUASA) has called on the government to restore the 25% tax rebate for teachers and researchers.
It argued that educators deserve the same consideration as cricketers exempted from taxes for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
FAPUASA President Dr. Amjad Abbas Magsi criticized what he called “preferential treatment” toward international athletes while ignoring the concerns of educators. He stated that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) revoked the rebate in December 2024, leading to significant salary deductions for teachers.
Despite earlier assurances in the June 2024 budget, the tax relief was abruptly withdrawn. Universities have been instructed to deduct full taxes and recover arrears from the past three years, adding to financial burdens on academic staff.
Dr. Magsi also warned of a crisis in higher education, citing chronic underfunding, bureaucratic interference, and controversial changes in university governance. He stressed that public-sector universities, which primarily serve middle- and lower-income students, are at risk of decline.
FAPUASA has threatened nationwide protests if the government does not reinstate the tax rebate, as university teachers continue their demonstrations against the FBR’s decision.