The Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training met here on Tuesday under the chairpersonship of Senator Bushra Anjum Butt to review critical educational initiatives, developmental projects, and legislative proposals.

A key highlight of the meeting was the in-depth discussion on the Proposed Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) 2025-26, with particular emphasis on the Center of Excellence for Autism at H-9/4, Islamabad.

The Committee was briefed on the total estimated cost of Rs2,730.709 million, with a proposed allocation of Rs2,336.000 million for the fiscal year 2025-26. The project is expected to be completed within 24 months.

Senator Bushra Anjum Butt strongly emphasized the importance of providing world-class facilities for children with autism, citing the increasing prevalence of the condition.

‘Institutions for autism cannot fall below international standards, she stated, adding that we must ensure the best facilities and allocate additional resources if required.’

During discussions, Senator Butt also raised concerns about the quality of food being served to students at institutions run by the Allah Walay Trust.

She sought detailed information on the menu and nutritional value of meals provided. ‘Nutrient-rich food must be a non-negotiable standard,’ she stressed, asking for a thorough justification of the dietary provisions.

The Committee also deferred the Private Member Bill titled ‘The Federal Supervision of Curricula, Textbooks and Maintenance of Standards of Education (Amendment) Bill 2024, pending final approval from the Ministry.

Senator Butt called for consultation with the Islamic Council of Ideology and directed that the final report be submitted within a fortnight.

The issue of delayed degrees awarded by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) was again raised. Senator Butt expressed serious concern over the plight of an estimated 25,000 students who have completed documentation but have yet to receive their degrees.

‘If we can begin the process and manage to issue even 10,000 degrees, it would be a significant success,’ she said, lamenting the dismay and hopelessness among students affected by fraudulent institutions. She emphasized that even students with no fault of their own have become unintended victims.

Agenda items moved by Senator Kamran Murtaza regarding the law college affiliated with Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Khairpur, were discussed and subsequently deferred.

The Committee decided to summon all stakeholders, including students and the administration, to provide a detailed briefing on affiliation issues and student concerns.