Afridi calls for actionable steps for UoP financial self-sufficiency, improved student facilities
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi. Photo: File
PESHAWAR:
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi paid an unannounced and informal visit to the Department of Economics, University of Peshawar, where he engaged directly with students and discussed the overall academic environment and related issues.
During the visit, the prime minister instructed the chancellor to present actionable proposals to make the university financially self-sufficient. Highlighting the provincial government’s commitment to promoting education, research and youth welfare initiatives, Afridi criticized the federal government’s alleged corruption, noting that a “corrupt cabal” at the center had caused serious damage to Pakistan’s economy, with historical corruption amounting to Rs 5.3 trillion.
Afridi stressed that the provincial government, in contrast, prioritizes public funds for the welfare and development of its people, taking concrete measures even in the face of discriminatory practices by the federal government.
He noted that if the province receives its due rights on time, the ongoing development efforts can accelerate significantly.
Referring to federal levies, the Chief Minister revealed that over Rs2.200 billion in net hydropower surplus is owed by Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa along with Rs1.375 billion under the NFC rate for merged districts.
Despite a promised annual allocation of Rs 100 billion to the merged districts, only Rs 168 billion has been disbursed over seven years, leaving Rs 532 billion outstanding. In addition, billions must still be paid in water charges.
Afridi urged students, especially youth, to raise their voices for the constitutional and legitimate rights of the province. He emphasized the importance of holding debates across all universities on provincial rights to raise awareness and empower students to actively advocate for their region.
Addressing security concerns, the Prime Minister noted that previous closed-door decisions had caused irreparable damage, but the current government is committed to ensuring peace, stability and development.
He also criticized the economic performance under the current federal government, noting that GDP growth fell from 6.2 percent under the previous administration to 2.6 percent, reflecting failed economic policies.
On the education front, Afridi called for proposals to provide subsidized meals to students staying in university hostels, announced upgrades to the economics department’s computer lab and unveiled a Rs 53 million solarization project for the departments of Economics, Political Science and IM Studies to improve the learning environment. He added that scholarships and special financial packages for students would be included in the upcoming budget along with a fast-track internship policy to create employment opportunities for youth.
The Chief Minister concluded by encouraging the students to embrace hard work, awareness and determination, stressing that the future of the province rests in the hands of its youth and that the government is committed to supporting them at all levels.
