Three universities in Balochistan have indefinitely halted on-campus academic activities, shifting to online classes due to security concerns.
The affected institutions include the University of Balochistan, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women University, and University of Turbat, which announced the immediate suspension of physical classes.
Decision Linked to Recent Security Threats
Sources indicate that the decision follows recent terrorist attacks in the province, including the hijacking of the Jaffar Express near Sibi, which resulted in the deaths of 26 hostages, including 18 security personnel.
Since the incident, multiple attacks have taken place across Balochistan, prompting university administrations to consult with deans and department heads before implementing the move.
University Notifications and Measures
A notification from the University of Balochistan confirmed that a meeting was held with deans and departmental heads, resulting in the decision to transition to virtual learning until further notice. No specific reason for the move was mentioned in the notification.
Faculty members have been directed to use their existing credentials to access digital learning resources and management systems.
Vice Chancellor Zahoor Ahmad Bazai explained that many students from remote areas faced difficulty reaching campuses due to ongoing protests on national highways. He assured that students from regions with poor internet connectivity would be given special considerations during the semester. A final decision on online classes will be made after Eidul Fitr.
The Sardar Bahadur Khan Women University also issued a similar notification, stating that students would attend online classes throughout Ramazan.
University of Turbat Faces Additional Challenges
The University of Turbat announced its decision following a meeting chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr. Gul Hasan. The statement cited security concerns and the ongoing “illegal occupation and blockade” of the Administrative Block by a group of students.
The meeting addressed administrative and academic matters, including the entry of outsiders and the protection of university property, as well as the safety of students and staff living on campus. Students were instructed to vacate hostels within two days.
According to the university’s registrar, the blockade began on March 13 when a group of students, protesting a Disciplinary Committee decision, locked the entrance, staged a sit-in at the main gate, and prevented staff from entering their offices.
Despite the formation of a faculty committee to engage with the protestors and assurances that their concerns would be addressed, the students refused to lift the blockade. They demanded the reinstatement of hostel allotment for a student penalized for “illegal activities”, making it a precondition for dialogue.
Additional Measures at Other Universities
Meanwhile, the Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering, and Management Sciences (BUITEMS) has suspended its student transport services. A decision on academic activities is expected on Wednesday, as examinations are currently ongoing.
