Punjab University announces scholarships under Rs10 billion aid plan
The university plans to provide financial assistance to on-campus students through scholarships and subsidies. The move is aimed at making higher education more affordable for students from different economic backgrounds.
The decision was taken during the 1,761st meeting of the Punjab University Syndicate. The meeting was chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali and reviewed the university’s financial plans for the next fiscal year.
The Syndicate recommended approval of a Rs20.87 billion budget for the 2026-27 financial year. The proposed budget will now be presented to the university’s Senate for final consideration.
According to the proposal, the Rs10 billion support package will be financed through government grants and the university’s own resources. Additional funding sources will also be used to strengthen student assistance programs.
The university has separately allocated Rs341 million from its own funds for scholarships. Students will also continue receiving support through the Honhaar Scholarship Program, HEC scholarship schemes and the Punjab Education Endowment Fund.
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Several welfare initiatives will remain available under the new budget. These measures are designed to reduce educational expenses and help deserving students continue their studies.
Students with disabilities will continue to receive free education and free hostel accommodation. Those admitted under the sports quota will also remain exempt from paying tuition fees.
Fee waivers for Huffaz-e-Quran will continue under the existing policy. Students will also receive subsidies on education, hostels, transport, electricity and other welfare services.
The university has approved Rs284 million in research grants to strengthen academic research. The funding will support projects aimed at improving international rankings and contributing to Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
Punjab University said recent financial reforms have improved its fiscal position. The budget deficit decreased from Rs2.2 billion in 2024-25 to Rs1.6 billion in 2025-26.
Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali expressed confidence about the future. He said the university aims to eliminate the remaining deficit by increasing revenue sources and expanding its Endowment Fund instead of relying on borrowing.
The Rs10 billion support package could make higher education more accessible for thousands of students. It may also help reduce financial pressure on families struggling with rising education costs.
The continued focus on scholarships, welfare programs and research funding shows that the university is trying to balance student support with long-term academic growth. If the financial reforms continue to succeed, Punjab University could further expand these benefits in the coming years.
