Reasons behind sharp decline in Punjab University admissions this year

Public universities in Punjab are facing a serious problem this year — fewer students are joining their programs. Admissions in undergraduate, MPhil, and PhD courses have dropped by 20% to 30% in many institutions.

Big universities like Punjab University Lahore, Government College University Faisalabad, and Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan have all reported lower-than-expected enrollments.

Smaller universities in cities like Dera Ghazi Khan, Sahiwal, and Narowal are struggling even more, with some unable to fill seats in popular courses.

Why Students Are Not Applying

Experts say several reasons are behind this decline:

• High costs — Even in public universities, hostel fees, transport, books, and other expenses have become too expensive for many families.

• Outdated courses — Many degrees do not match current job market needs.

• Economic hardship — Inflation is forcing students to skip higher education and start working.

One example is Shamsa Bibi from near Narowal, whose son scored well in intermediate exams but had to work in a factory instead of going to university.

Shift Towards Short Courses

Students now prefer short courses, vocational diplomas, and online certifications, especially in IT and digital skills, because they offer quicker job opportunities. The growing freelancing and gig economy is making this shift faster.

Falling Postgraduate Admissions

MPhil and PhD programs are also seeing fewer applicants, raising concerns about reduced research and innovation in Punjab.

What Experts Suggest

Educationists are urging the government to:

• Offer more scholarships to low-income students

• Provide cheaper transport

• Reduce entry test fees

• Update curricula to match industry needs

• Build strong university–industry partnerships

Without urgent action, they warn, Punjab’s higher education system may lose both students and its role in the province’s growth.

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