ISLAMABAD, Feb 24 (APP): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Tuesday expressed serious concern over the deteriorating condition of public sector universities in the province during a meeting with Chairman Higher Education Commission (HEC) Dr Niaz in Islamabad.
During the meeting, matters relating to financial, administrative and academic challenges faced by universities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa came under detailed discussion.
The Governor said that compared to the other three provinces, the allocation for higher education by the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was very low and alarming, stressing that insufficient funding was adversely affecting the performance and sustainability of universities.
He emphasized the urgent need for laying AstroTurf facilities at Gomal University and University of Peshawar, terming them essential for promoting healthy academic and extracurricular activities.
The HEC Chairman assured full cooperation and pledged to play his due role in addressing the issues highlighted by the Governor.
The Governor also highlighted the importance of Benazir Bhutto Women University and said that the Kalam Bibi University, a federally administered institution, was a key educational institution for the southern districts of the province after Benazir Bhutto Women University. He stressed that focused attention must be given to its development and uplift.
Appreciating Dr Niaz on his appointment as Chairman HEC, the Governor expressed confidence that under his leadership, the Commission would benefit from his vast experience and God-gifted abilities, as reflected in the progress of renowned educational institutions he supervised in the past.