University Teachers Demand Increase in HEC Funding in Budget 2026-27

MUTA Calls for Higher Education Budget Increase and Restoration of Tax Rebate

The Mehran University Teachers Association (MUTA) has expressed serious concerns over the federal budget 2026-27, stating that the proposed allocations are insufficient to meet the growing financial needs of universities and higher education institutions across Pakistan.

In a statement issued on Monday, MUTA President Dr. Nafees Ahmed Memon and General Secretary Dr. Arshad Memon criticized the government's funding priorities and urged policymakers to reconsider allocations for the higher education sector. The association warned that it may launch a nationwide protest campaign if its demands are not incorporated into the final budget.

MUTA Demands Increase in HEC Budget Allocation

One of the key demands raised by the university teachers' body is a substantial increase in the recurring grant allocated to the Higher Education Commission (HEC).

According to MUTA, the federal government has proposed Rs. 66.4 billion for HEC's recurring expenditures in the budget 2026-27. However, the association argues that the amount falls far short of the sector's requirements.

The teachers' association has demanded that the allocation be increased to Rs. 130 billion, noting that HEC had initially requested Rs. 138 billion and later revised its requirement to a minimum of Rs. 100 billion to ensure the smooth functioning of public universities.

Call to Raise Education Spending to 4% of GDP

MUTA also emphasized the need for long-term investment in education and urged the government to increase national education spending to 4 percent of Pakistan's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) within the next five years.

The association highlighted that several countries in South Asia dedicate a larger proportion of their economic resources to education, enabling them to improve academic standards, research output, and institutional development.

According to MUTA, increased public investment is essential for enhancing the quality of higher education, supporting research activities, and ensuring sustainable growth in the sector.

Teachers Seek Restoration of 75% Tax Rebate

In addition to funding concerns, university teachers have demanded the restoration of the 75 percent tax rebate previously available to university faculty members and researchers.

The association believes that reinstating the tax incentive would encourage academic professionals to continue contributing to research and innovation while helping universities attract and retain qualified faculty members.

Demand for TTS Salary Revision and Promotion Policy

MUTA has also called on the government to issue pending salary revision notifications for faculty members serving under the Tenure Track System (TTS).

Furthermore, the association urged authorities to implement a uniform promotion policy for employees working under the Basic Pay Scale (BPS) system across higher education institutions.

The teachers' representatives argued that addressing these issues would improve employee morale, strengthen institutional performance, and create a more equitable working environment within universities.

Higher Education Sector Faces Financial Challenges

Education experts have repeatedly stressed that universities are facing increasing operational costs, funding shortages, and research constraints. University administrations have also highlighted the need for greater financial support to maintain academic quality and expand educational opportunities.

MUTA believes that enhanced HEC funding and policy reforms are necessary to ensure the sustainability of Pakistan's higher education system and to support the country's academic and research goals.

The Mehran University Teachers Association has urged the federal government to revisit its higher education allocations in Budget 2026-27. With demands ranging from increased HEC funding to tax relief and salary reforms, university teachers argue that stronger investment in education is essential for Pakistan's long-term development and global competitiveness.