Punjab University has announced that it will provide Rs. 10 billion worth of scholarships and subsidies to on-campus students under its proposed budget for the 2026-27 financial year, aiming to make higher education more affordable for students from all backgrounds.
The decision was taken during the 1,761st meeting of the Punjab University Syndicate, chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali. The Syndicate recommended the approval of a Rs. 20.87 billion budget to the University’s Senate.
According to the proposed budget, the Rs. 10 billion financial support package will be funded through government grants, the university’s own resources, and other funding sources. The Syndicate also recommended increasing scholarships and student subsidies to further reduce the financial burden on students and their families.
Punjab University has separately allocated Rs. 341 million from its own resources for scholarships. Students will also continue to benefit from financial assistance under the Honhaar Scholarship Program, Higher Education Commission (HEC) scholarship schemes, and the Punjab Education Endowment Fund (PEEF).
The proposed budget also preserves several existing student welfare initiatives. Students with disabilities will continue to receive free education and free hostel accommodation, while students admitted under the sports quota will be exempt from tuition fees.
Tuition fee waivers for Huffaz-e-Quran will also remain in place. In addition, students will continue to receive subsidies on education, hostel accommodation, transport, electricity, and other welfare facilities.
The university also approved the allocation of Rs. 284 million in research grants to strengthen research activities, improve international rankings, and support projects that contribute to Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
Punjab University said its financial reforms have helped reduce the budget deficit from Rs. 2.2 billion in 2024-25 to Rs. 1.6 billion in 2025-26. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali expressed confidence that the deficit would be eliminated in the coming years by expanding the university’s revenue streams and strengthening its Endowment Fund rather than relying on borrowing.
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