The Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology has called for increased representation of students from Balochistan at the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), alongside approving the construction of additional girls’ hostels and tackling the persistent issue of sewerage water on campus. During a meeting held at NUST, chaired by Senator Kamil Ali Agha, the committee discussed these pressing matters.
Senators Dr. Afnan Ullah Khan, Nadeem Ahmed Bhutto, Husna Bano, and Muhammad Aslam Abro were also present, according to a statement released by the Senate Secretariat on Thursday. NUST Rector, Dr. Muhammad Zahid Latif, briefed the committee on the institution’s advancements and obstacles. Founded in 1991, NUST currently has 20,000 pupils enrolled in 168 degree courses across seven academic fields, with a faculty of 1,296 members, 68% holding PhDs.
The institution holds a global ranking of 371st in the QS World Rankings 2025-26, placing 6th in South Asia and 67th in Asia. Based on 2017 census information, student demographics show Punjab dominating with 61.02%, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (11.56%), Islamabad (9.69%), Sindh (8.38%), Azad Jammu and Kashmir (3.1%), Balochistan (2.59%), Gilgit-Baltistan (2.24%), and 0.38% international learners.
Concerned by the regional disparity, the chairman emphasized the need for better inclusion of learners from smaller provinces, especially Balochistan. While admissions are merit-based, the Rector explained that differences in educational levels across provinces present challenges for aspirants from less developed areas. He pointed out that NUST conducts entrance examinations across the country and provides over 1,000 financial aids to pupils from families earning less than Rs. 40,000 monthly.
The Rector also highlighted significant funding difficulties, noting that the NUST Balochistan campus operates at an annual deficit of Rs. 30 million. He stated that the provincial administration has yet to disburse promised grants for 200 learners from the province. The chairman instructed that the Chief Secretary Balochistan and the head of the Balochistan Education Endowment Fund (BEEF) be called upon for the next meeting to address the matter.
The panel recommended that NUST formulate plans for new girls’ dormitories for inclusion in the upcoming Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP). NUST revealed it receives Rs. 4 billion annually from the government, but costs surpass Rs. 12 billion, with Rs. 1 billion solely for electricity. This deficit hampers the university’s capacity to retain educators, contributing to faculty departures.
Addressing the flow of wastewater onto the grounds from nearby locations, the committee formed a sub-committee to work with the Capital Development Authority (CDA) on concerns involving water provision, land agreements, and construction approvals.