Daily Times

Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations this year promise to go beyond jingoism. As all eyes turn towards to the Punjab and its Kasur District. For it is here that the country’s first “free” university is set to open its doors to students. The date is one to remember: August 14.

Akhuwat University is the brainchild of Dr Mohammed Amjad Saqib, the executive director of a micro-finance firm. And his motivation is to provide higher education based on merit, not bank balance. As the best way to invest in Pakistan’s greatest human resource: its youth. This is something that is close to Imran Khan’s heart. The PTI supremo opened Namal College a decade ago as part of his non-political philanthropy. Ninety percent of the student body are on financial assistance.

Both initiatives are to be appreciated. No ifs or buts. And as far as Akhuwat University goes, it will be a national institute. With some 20 percent of students coming from each of the country’s provinces; in what looks like a quota system of sorts. Thus far, 600 students have been enrolled. The idea is that students can ‘pay back’ the university whenever they can; after, say 10 or 20 years. In order to sponsor future generations.

This presumably does away with notions of crippling student debt that has become a fact of life for many in Britain.  In fact, models such as Akhuwat University and Namal College represent the push-back against global capitalism that dictates only the rich may access fundamental rights such as education at all levels. Germany has been a pioneer on this front. Indeed, back in 2014 the country abolished tuition fees at all public universities at the undergraduate level; including for international students.

As D-Day approaches, it is hoped that more information is forthcoming from the Akhuwat University administration as to where ‘subsidies’ come from. Meaning, the private or development sector. Presently, its website only provides a link for donations. There also appears no mention of whether or not the university will be partnering with any international education institutes. Namal College, for example, is affiliated with Bradford university in the UK.

That being said, it is hoped that the project is a resounding success. The youth of Pakistan could not be more deserving.  *

Published in Daily Times, July 5^th 2018.