by The recent admissions decline at the University of Peshawar highlights urgent challenges facing the institution. This drop in student numbers not only affects the university’s financial stability but also signals the need for immediate reforms to improve accessibility, academic quality, and overall student experience. Admissions decline at University of Peshawar highlights urgent need for change, making it critical for stakeholders to address the root causes and develop sustainable solutions to restore the university’s reputation and role as a leading educational center in KP.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to the University
- Alarming Admission Statistics
- Causes Behind the Decline
- Impact on Students and the Institution
- The Way Forward
- Conclusion
1. Introduction to the University
The University of Peshawar, established in 1950, is the oldest and largest public university in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). For decades, it has served as a leading center of higher learning, producing thousands of graduates in fields ranging from social sciences to natural sciences, education, law, and humanities.
It has long been considered a prestigious choice for students across KP and beyond. However, recent years have seen a sharp drop in admissions — a troubling sign for one of the most significant institutions in Pakistan’s public education system.
2. Alarming Admission Statistics
Recent admission data paints a concerning picture:
- In several departments, the number of admitted students has dropped dramatically.
- Departments like Development Studies, Logistics & Supply Chain, Home Economics, and Geography admitted only 2–4 students each this year.
- Total admissions in BS (undergraduate) programs across 53 departments remain well below expectations, with many programs struggling to fill even half of their available seats.
- Postgraduate admissions, including MPhil and PhD, have also declined sharply. For example, PhD enrollment dropped from 178 in 2020 to just 66 this year.
- Many classrooms and labs remain underutilized due to insufficient student numbers.
This trend marks a significant departure from past years, where competitive merit and long waitlists were the norm for admissions in major departments.
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3. Causes Behind the Decline
Fee Hikes and Affordability
The university increased semester fees by Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000 in several programs, pushing the total per semester fee to over Rs. 60,000. This sharp rise in cost is a major burden for students from low and middle-income families.
Increased Competition
With many other universities and sub-campuses emerging across KP, students now have more affordable and accessible options closer to home. This has reduced the appeal of relocating to Peshawar for higher studies.
Perceived Decline in Quality
Students and parents are increasingly questioning the quality of education, infrastructure, and administrative support. Delays in results, outdated curricula, and understaffed departments have eroded confidence in the institution.
Administrative Inefficiencies
Centralized decision-making, slow admission processing, and lack of innovation in academic programs are contributing to the institution’s inability to attract and retain students. Their official website provides information on policies, reforms, and initiatives aimed at improving higher education in the region.
Underfunding and Resource Shortages
The university is facing budget deficits running into billions. This has affected everything from classroom maintenance and lab facilities to faculty hiring and student services.
Low-Enrolment Departments
Several departments continue operating with student numbers far below viability thresholds. In such cases, students avoid choosing programs with uncertain futures.
4. Impact on Students and the Institution
For Students
- Reduced academic diversity and fewer peer interactions
- Limited resources in departments with shrinking budgets
- Uncertainty about program credibility and future opportunities
For Departments
- Risk of downsizing or permanent closure
- Faculty demoralization and loss of research productivity
- Difficulty in running academic programs effectively
For the University
- Loss of tuition revenue leading to deeper financial troubles
- Damage to institutional reputation
- Diminished ability to attract quality faculty and researchers
The broader concern is the long-term sustainability of the university if the current trend continues.
5. The Way Forward
To reverse this downward spiral, a strategic and student-centered approach is essential:
Revise the Fee Structure
Make higher education more affordable by adjusting tuition rates, offering need-based scholarships, and introducing flexible payment options.
Modernize and Market Academic Programs
Revamp curricula to match job market needs. Promote departments that offer practical and future-ready skills.
Improve Student Experience
Strengthen support services, simplify admission processes, and enhance campus life to attract students.
Boost Funding Through Partnerships
Explore collaborations with industries, alumni networks, and donors. Encourage government to increase funding for essential departments and infrastructure.
Restructure Non-Performing Departments
Conduct academic audits and restructure departments with low enrolment. Resources should be redirected to high-demand programs or emerging fields.
Decentralize Decision-Making
Give more autonomy to departments in managing admissions, curricula, and student engagement. This can improve responsiveness and accountability.
6. Conclusion
The University of Peshawar is at a crossroads. Its historical legacy, academic contributions, and status as KP’s premier university are all at risk if the admissions crisis is not addressed.
Rising costs, outdated systems, and administrative inefficiencies are keeping students away. However, with urgent reforms, improved accessibility, and visionary leadership, the university can rebuild its stature.
The focus must shift from preserving legacy structures to creating future-ready educational environments. Only then can KP’s oldest and largest university continue to serve as a true pillar of learning and progress in the region.
