Pakistan now has more than 270 universities, with new ones added each year. Yet, only a handful provide quality undergraduate education, collectively offering fewer than 20,000 good admissions annually. The majority of students end up in low-quality institutions—a problem that is only worsening as many universities struggle to fill admission slots.
Experts argue that undergraduate education is the foundation of human capital development. Between the ages of 18 and 22, students mature, discover themselves, and prepare for public life. In developed countries like the US, nearly half of young people enter college programs, while in Pakistan the figure is only 7–8%. Without improving access and quality at this stage, Pakistan cannot hope to overcome its human capital crisis.
A strong undergraduate program should go beyond subject knowledge. It should teach students how to learn, think critically, communicate effectively, and apply knowledge to real-life challenges. Unfortunately, most Pakistani universities lack writing centers, mentoring, and co-curricular opportunities. Faculty often see their role as limited to teaching subject-specific content, leaving students without the skills and confidence they need.
The neglect of undergraduate education has been compounded by an excessive focus on graduate studies and research since the creation of the Higher Education Commission. Experts warn that unless universities refocus on teaching quality at the undergraduate level, Pakistan’s education system will remain weak and unable to meet national needs.