Student Scholarships Increased Significantly in KP

The University of Swat convened its 10th Senate meeting on Monday under the leadership of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. The session included Provincial Higher Education Minister Meena Khan Afridi, senior officials from the Higher Education Department, and Senate members. The students can get latest updates of KP CM Announces Major Increase in Scholarship Funds to Empower Students.

Review of Annual Report and Follow-Up on Previous Decisions

The Senate was presented with the University of Swat’s Annual Report for the academic year 2023–24. Officials provided updates on the implementation status of earlier Senate decisions. The draft of the University Statutes 2024 was examined and referred to a designated committee for further assessment.

Strategic Plan 2024–30 Introduced with Focus on Scholarship Expansion

The University’s Strategic Plan for 2024–30 was discussed, with the Chief Minister instructing that it be forwarded to the Higher Education Department’s Task Force for detailed refinement. Emphasizing student support, Gandapur announced a significant hike in the provincial scholarship fund, ensuring all public university departments are covered.

Emphasis on Investment in High-Demand Academic Fields

The Chief Minister urged increased investment in departments with high student enrollment and stressed the importance of fostering academic programs that meet market needs and employment trends.

Graduate Support and Infrastructure Development at University of Swat

Gandapur directed the allocation of reserved quotas for university graduates within the Ehsaas Rozgar business loan schemes, highlighting the readiness of graduates to benefit from these opportunities. He also emphasized promoting the Hotel Management program at the University of Swat. Additionally, he requested proposals for futsal facilities in ten universities for the upcoming budget year and approved construction plans for a guesthouse, auditorium, and indoor gymnasium at the girls’ hostel on campus.

University Enrollment and Ranking Overview

The Vice-Chancellor provided a comprehensive report on the university’s achievements over the past three years, noting that current enrollment includes 9,059 BS students, 756 MPhil/MS candidates, and 315 PhD researchers. Over 18,000 students are enrolled in colleges affiliated with the university. The University of Swat holds the 10th position provincially according to Times Higher Education rankings and has formed collaborative ties with various national and international institutions.