PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Minister of Higher Education, Meena Khan dismissed reports of plans to shut down four universities in Swat, clarifying that no such measures were under consideration
Instead, she emphasized that the government aims to strengthen these institutions.
Addressing concerns, the minister explained that the recent movement of equipment and materials does not indicate university closures.
“There is no connection between these transfers and any university shutdowns,” she assured.
Despite ongoing financial challenges, documents show that the hiring process continues across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s universities.
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Over the past three years, 958 new employees were recruited across 17 universities and institutes in the province.
Most of these hirings occurred at Khyber Medical University (KMU), with 254 appointments ranging from class IV staff to administrative officers between 2022 and 2024. Other universities, such as Women University Swabi, hired 174 staff, while University of Haripur employed 64 individuals over the same period. The University of Lakki Marwat also recruited 95 employees during this time.
However, a hiring freeze has recently been imposed across the province’s universities, according to the Department of Higher Education. A statement from the department advises against creating new posts without prior approval from the finance department.
The minister promised more good news for higher education in Swat, signaling ongoing government efforts to bolster university resources and operations across the region.