In an unprecedented event that marked a first in the university's history, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (UAJK), Prof Nasir Jamal Khattak, convened a massive gathering of nearly 900 faculty members and administrative staff. The historic assembly, held under one roof at the Main Auditorium, was called to deliberate on the institution's pressing academic priorities, administrative hurdles, and a comprehensive roadmap for future reforms.
A Call for Collective Responsibility and Shared Vision
Opening the landmark session, Vice Chancellor Prof Khattak immediately acknowledged the unwavering dedication of the UAJK community. He powerfully emphasized that the institution's strength hinges on a collective effort, shared responsibility, and a forward-looking vision. Prof Khattak urged every single member, from teaching faculty to support staff, to actively contribute to enhancing the quality of higher education. He stressed that the university must stand as a steadfast pillar of opportunity for the youth of Azad Kashmir.
Confronting the Financial Reality: A Rs1.3 Billion Challenge
The Vice Chancellor then presented a starkly transparent overview of the university's financial health, laying bare the challenges before the entire staff. He revealed that UAJK must secure Rs1,304.533 million before the close of the 2025–26 financial year to meet its existing deficit. A significant recurring pressure on the university's limited financial base was identified as the annual pension payout, which amounts to a substantial Rs590.286 million for retired employees.
For sustainable, long-term restructuring, Prof Khattak underlined the critical need for a one-time grant of Rs2 billion each for an Endowment Fund and a dedicated Pension Fund. He described these measures as essential to alleviating the persistent fiscal pressures. Leading by example, the Vice Chancellor disclosed that he is personally contributing a portion of his own funds to the Endowment Fund every month and encouraged all staff to join this collective mission for the brighter future of their students.
Integrity, Accountability, and a New Mindset
Highlighting the core principles of institutional advancement, the VC stated, "A university cannot advance without transparency, academic rigour and collective responsibility." He called for a fundamental shift in mindset, asserting that "Quality higher education requires that every individual; whether faculty or staff, works with the mindset of a shareholder, not merely an employee."
He further added, "Our youth deserve a university built on strong foundations. Financial discipline, accountability and shared effort are essential for our survival and progress." In a powerful move, Prof Khattak offered himself for complete accountability, remarking that meaningful governance reform must begin at the very top. He then engaged in a detailed question-and-answer session, thoroughly addressing queries and concerns on administrative, academic, and financial issues raised by faculty and staff from various campuses.
In a heartening moment during the gathering, the Vice Chancellor presented a cash award from his personal funds to Abid Zamir Hashmi, a Stenographer at UAJK, in recognition of his courteous and commendable assistance to a visiting family during the admission process.
The faculty and staff expressed their gratitude for the Vice Chancellor's openness, clarity, and direct engagement with the institution's challenges. They noted that this unprecedented dialogue had significantly strengthened their confidence in the administration's commitment to steering UAJK towards a more stable and prosperous future.
