The Finance and Planning Committee (FPC) of Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU) has recommended a budget of Rs4.58 billion for the financial year 2026-27, pending approval by the university's Syndicate. The recommendation came during the 45th FPC meeting, chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Yousuf Khushk, as stated in a SALU press release issued on Sunday.
Deficit Reduced by Over 56 Percent
Director Finance Qazi Nizamuddin informed the meeting that the budget deficit for 2026-27 has been brought down to Rs384.239 million, a significant improvement from Rs886.654 million in the previous fiscal year 2025-26. This represents a reduction of more than 56 percent. The improvement was attributed to a combination of financial reforms, strict austerity measures, and enhanced revenue generation efforts implemented by the university administration.
Nizamuddin further reported that during the 2025-26 fiscal year, SALU managed grants and revenues totaling Rs4,105 million against expenditures of Rs4,104 million, effectively achieving a near-balanced budget. This financial discipline has laid a strong foundation for the proposed budget.
Budgets for Campuses and Affiliated Institutions
The committee also recommended separate budgets for the university's Ghotki and Shahdadkot campuses, as well as for its study centres and the Law College Naushero Feroze. These allocations are part of SALU's broader strategy to ensure equitable resource distribution across all its academic units.
Vice Chancellor Emphasizes Financial Discipline
Speaking at the meeting, Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Yousuf Khushk underscored the importance of financial discipline, stating that the goal is to "maximise the impact of every public rupee on students, research and academic quality." He highlighted that the university's focus remains on enhancing educational outcomes while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Appreciation from HEC Representatives
HEC Islamabad nominee Samer Sibtain and Sindh HEC nominee Feroz Mahar, who were present at the meeting, praised the transparent budgeting process. They offered suggestions for further strengthening the university's fiscal sustainability, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and innovation in financial management.
