Karachi: The government of Sindh has directed all public and private universities across the province to shift academic activities online for two weeks as part of a broader austerity and fuel conservation campaign.
The announcement was made by Muhammad Ismail Rahu, who said the decision was taken in response to the ongoing global energy situation and the provincial government’s initiative to reduce fuel consumption and public spending.
Universities to Conduct Classes Online
According to the directive, all universities and degree-awarding institutions in Sindh must move 100 percent of their academic activities online for the specified two-week period. The measure applies to both public and private institutions operating under the provincial regulatory framework.
Officials said the step aims to significantly reduce daily commuting by students, faculty members, and administrative staff, thereby lowering fuel usage during the ongoing energy conservation drive.
Fuel Allocations for Government Departments Cut
The provincial government has also decided to cut fuel allocations for all government departments by 50 percent for the next two months as part of its austerity measures.
In addition, universities have been instructed to ground 60 percent of their official vehicles immediately, further contributing to the province’s fuel-saving efforts.
Examinations to Continue as Scheduled
Despite the shift to online classes, authorities clarified that examinations will continue according to their previously announced schedules. Students will be required to appear physically for exams unless institutions announce alternative arrangements.
Budget Cuts for Universities
The government has also imposed a 20 percent reduction in the Non-Establishment Related Expenditure (Non-ERE) budgets of universities. The move is intended to control operational costs and align institutional spending with the broader fiscal austerity policy.
Officials said the measures are part of the provincial government’s wider strategy to manage fuel consumption and reduce financial pressures amid global energy market uncertainty.
Education authorities are expected to monitor compliance with the directives and ensure that universities maintain the continuity of academic activities through digital platforms during the temporary transition.