The University of Karachi (KU) is facing an alarming financial crisis as unpaid fees from students have surged to Rs. 2.101 billion over the past four years. This significant figure involves students from morning, evening, and EMBA programs who have failed to fulfill their financial obligations despite repeated reminders.
Fee Collection Rates and Defaulters
Among 22,575 vouchers issued to morning program students, 9,370 students remain defaulters, leaving over Rs. 991.54 million unpaid. Evening program defaulters, numbering 6,882, have added Rs. 1,049.84 million to the total unpaid amount. EMBA program students owe Rs. 60.10 million, with a collection rate of just 40.08%.
Across all programs, 36,767 vouchers were issued, but only 20,261 students cleared their fees, resulting in an overall collection rate of 36.39%. These figures were shared during a high-level meeting chaired by Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, where faculty deans and departmental heads voiced their concerns over the mounting dues.
Impact on Academics and Proposed Measures
The non-payment of fees has significantly impacted the university’s operations, leading the administration to consider withholding admit cards for defaulters. The possibility of canceling enrollments or withholding degrees for pass-out students who still owe fees was also discussed.
Trends in Fee Payments Over the Years
An analysis of payment trends from 2020 to 2024 highlights inconsistencies in fee collection. For instance, while 71.6% of evening students cleared their dues in 2020, this figure dropped to 39% in 2021 and 60.10% in 2024. This downward trend reflects a growing financial burden on the university.
KU has repeatedly offered defaulters opportunities to pay their dues, but with limited success. Only 46.36% of pass-out students have cleared their balances, leaving the administration with no choice but to enforce stricter policies moving forward.
