ISLAMABAD, Nov 19 (Wealth Pakistan) – Enrolments in private universities have increased by 16 percent over the last three years. The number rose from 113,618 in 2021–22 to 150,127 in 2023–24. The Federal Ministry of Education and Professional Training compiled the data, and it shows that demand for higher education is rising across the country.
Rise in private university admissions
Private universities continued to grow during this period. Enrolments increased to 130,603 in 2022–23 and then to 150,127 in 2023–24. Moreover, the steady rise indicates that more students are choosing private institutions due to wider program options.
Increase in public university admissions
Public universities also recorded higher enrolments. They admitted 555,214 students in 2021–22, 578,963 in 2022–23, and 603,728 in 2023–24. As a result, the combined enrolments in public and private institutions rose from 668,832 in 2021–22 to 752,781 in 2023–24.
Province-wise enrolment trends
The province-wise data shows mixed but stable trends.
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, 8,095 students enrolled in 2021–22, 7,900 in 2022–23, and 7,859 in 2023–24. In Balochistan, enrolments were 11,357 in 2021–22, 10,885 in 2022–23, and 10,997 in 2023–24. Although these numbers fluctuated, the overall trend stayed steady.
Highest enrolment in Islamabad
The Islamabad Capital Territory recorded the highest student numbers. It enrolled 267,013 students in 2021–22, 284,239 in 2022–23, and 294,838 in 2023–24. In contrast, Gilgit-Baltistan recorded lower enrolments, with 3,519 in 2021–22, 2,626 in 2022–23, and 2,681 in 2023–24.
Enrolment trends in KP, Punjab, and Sindh
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa enrolled 63,789 students in 2021–22, 64,090 in 2022–23, and 64,391 in 2023–24. Meanwhile, Punjab showed strong growth, rising from 224,641 in 2021–22 to 272,263 in 2023–24. Sindh also recorded a gradual increase, moving from 90,418 in 2021–22 to 99,752 in 2023–24.
HEC efforts to expand higher education
According to the Higher Education Commission (HEC), it has taken several steps to expand access to higher education. New universities and sub-campuses were set up in remote areas, and as a result, students in underserved regions gained better opportunities for higher studies.
Government-funded development projects
The federal government funded many projects to support universities. These include new campuses, academic blocks, hostels, and laboratories. In addition, the projects cover faculty training, ICT upgrades, transport facilities, and equipment procurement to strengthen the learning environment.
HEC development portfolio and scholarship schemes
For FY2025–26, the HEC allocated Rs39 billion for 140 development projects. Furthermore, the government launched various merit-based and need-based scholarships to help students at undergraduate, postgraduate, and post-doctoral levels continue their studies.
Faculty development programs
HEC also introduced several programs to enhance teaching quality and research skills. These programs aim to improve academic standards and ensure that universities offer high-quality education nationwide.
Support for research and innovation
HEC runs many research and innovation programs. These include the National Research Program for Universities, Technology Development Fund, Grand Challenge Fund, Local Challenge Fund, Rapid Research Grant, Technology Transfer Support Fund, and the Center of Excellence Grant. In addition, a separate program supports joint research with international partners.
Digital learning initiatives
To improve digital access, the government launched national projects such as the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme, Smart Universities (smart classrooms), PERN connectivity, Digital Library, DELSI, National Video Conferencing Network, Education Transformation Agreement, Microsoft Certifications, Huawei ICT Academy Program, and the Higher Education TV channel. Consequently, students now have better access to digital learning tools and online education.