A protest at the University of Karachi has entered its fourth day, with students continuing a sit-in outside the Vice Chancellor’s Office for more than 78 hours. The demonstration is against the Karachi, Sindh and Pakistan (KSP) admissions policy, rising university fees and restrictions preventing certain students from appearing in examinations.
Members of the Sindhi Shagird Sath have reportedly been spending nights outdoors as they call on the university administration to address their concerns. The protesters argue that administrative restrictions and financial difficulties should not prevent students from continuing their education or taking examinations. They also say that being barred from exams could affect students’ academic progress and future career opportunities.
The dispute over the KSP admissions policy dates back several years. In December 2023, the Sindhi Shagird Tehreek organised a demonstration in Karachi, arguing that the admission framework disadvantaged eligible students from Sindh by placing greater emphasis on geographical considerations rather than academic merit and individual ability. Protesters at the time also called for better educational facilities, including student hostels and university transport services.
The latest demonstration has also highlighted concerns about the rising cost of higher education. Students say increasing tuition fees and restrictive administrative measures are making it more difficult for families with limited financial resources to support their children’s education. They argue that public universities should provide accessible opportunities and ensure that financial circumstances do not become an additional barrier to academic progress.
The protesters are demanding a review of the KSP admissions policy, action on rising fees, the withdrawal of restrictions affecting students and permission for those concerned to appear in their examinations. They are also calling for meaningful engagement with the university administration to resolve the dispute.
With the sit-in continuing beyond 78 hours, the protest has placed pressure on the University of Karachi administration to respond to the students’ demands. The immediate issue remains whether negotiations will begin and whether affected students will be allowed to sit their examinations.
