The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has expanded an investigation into alleged academic and financial irregularities at Gomal University (GU) after more than 500 degrees were flagged as suspicious during an official review, authorities said Wednesday.
According to the Higher Education Department, the inquiry was launched after the university administration identified alleged irregularities dating from 2019 to 2023.
Preliminary findings led to the suspension of a former director of affiliations, while proceedings have also been initiated against a former controller of examinations.
Officials said scrutiny of the university records revealed 514 questionable degrees, prompting recommendations for their cancellation.
A fresh inquiry committee has been constituted to conduct a detailed investigation, while allegations of financial mismanagement are also being examined.
Provincial Minister for Higher Education Mina Khan Afridi said the government would pursue the case to its logical conclusion and ensure accountability for anyone found involved in issuing irregular degrees or causing losses to the institution.
He said the provincial government was strengthening oversight and accountability mechanisms in public sector universities to safeguard academic standards and protect students’ interests.
The minister added that efforts were underway to eliminate corruption and malpractice in higher education institutions and to restore public confidence in the credibility of university qualifications across the province.
