Financial Insecurity grips University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Employees

Mirpur, (AJK),  (Parliament Times) : The University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir is facing a severe financial crisis, leaving its employees without financial security. Unlike other government employees who typically celebrate or criticize pay increases after the budget speech, university staff have to wait months, sometimes even years, for their pay hikes.
*The Current Situation*
Two months of arrears for the Adhoc Relief Allowance of 2024 are still pending, with the remaining amount paid in installments only after employees threatened to stage a sit-in protest. Medical and other bills have been delayed or unpaid for years, adding to the employees’ woes. Last year’s bail-out package from the government provided temporary relief, but with no supplementary grant announced in the current budget, employees are anxious about their future.
*The University’s Financial Woes*
The University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, once profitable, is now struggling to pay employee salaries. This financial crunch is not new, and the situation is becoming increasingly dire. According to a report, the university’s vice-chancellors have urged the state government for an annual grant to prevent a potential crisis that could affect staff members students.
*Administrative Issues Compound the Problem*
The university’s financial struggles are further complicated by administrative issues. Experts suggest that hiring a full-time professional Director of Finance and Planning could help alleviate some of these problems. Additionally, the university needs to devise plans to utilize its assets effectively.
*Call for Government Support*
The State Government of Azad Kashmir is being urged to take responsibility for higher education in the region, including university education. A similar situation was observed in various Universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa where the institutions requested funds from the government to pay employee salaries, highlighting the precarious financial situation faced by universities in the region.
*Employee Satisfaction*
According to reviews on a internet, University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir employees have rated their compensation and benefits 2.6 out of 5 stars, indicating a significant level of dissatisfaction.
The situation demands immediate attention from the authorities to ensure the financial security of university employees and the sustainability of the institution.