Transforming Higher Education in Gilgit Baltistan

Education is often likened to the key that unlocks the door to freedom, guiding individuals towards a better path and elevating living standards. Quality education plays a pivotal role in transforming generational trends and contributing to the advancement of nations.

A developing nation like Pakistan which is in dire need of competitive human capital should be making education an imperative part of its focus areas. But, the modern era poses challenges for the youth, particularly in regions like Gilgit Baltistan (GB), where the pursuit of quality higher education is a struggle.

GB is known for its breathtaking beauty, tourist attractions, and high student enrollment in school and college compared to other parts of Pakistan but quality higher education is one of the main prevailing issues for the youth of GB.

For higher education in GB, there are only two institutions; Karakoram International University (KIU) Gilgit, and the University of Baltistan (UoB) Skardu. It is true majority of GB’s youth travel down the country for higher education, but some students cannot afford such opportunities due to financial and other socio-economic constraints.

Although universities have developed the quality of education in these institutions is still challenging. Let discuss case of KIU Gilgit.

The existing institutions grapple with issues such as student protests against administrative bodies both the Government and university administration body including the Vice-Chancellor and team often triggered by unreasonable increases in semester fees twice within a semester which may increase the burden on parents. Students demand their rights through protests and class boycotts etc affecting students’ academic performance.

The lack of alternative educational institutions in the region exacerbates the situation. Regrettably, Karakoram International University face a severe financial crisis, hindering its ability to meet its commitments, this financial strain is threatening the future of thousands of university students marring its capacity to sustain academic performances.

Moreover, the faculty members, essential for delivering quality education, find themselves compelled to raise their voices for increased salaries. While they deserve fair compensation for their services, administrative bodies remain indifferent to these concerns. Consequently, students bear the brunt of the resultant issues, further impacting the pursuit of quality education.

Gilgit Baltistan with its diverse ethnic and religious makeup has been prone to sectarian tension, primarily among different sects within Islam. Karakoram International University being a hub for students from various backgrounds, is not immune to these underlying tensions that occasionally flare up, negatively impacting the overall education atmosphere, the way sectarian protest often leads to disruption in regular academic activities, which can range from canceled classes to temporary closure of the university.

Also creates a sense of fear and insecurity, especially among female students and faculty. This fear can deter individuals from fully engaging in their studies or expressing their opinions freely, hindering the intellectual growth that a university environment should foster. Additionally, the youth are involved in sectarian issues, with protests becoming a routine response in institutions.

A contingent of police and rangers have also been deployed at the campus, which may have pros and cons it may enhance the overall safety and security of the campus, reassuring especially female students, faculty and staff while on the other side, a visible security presence might create an atmosphere of tension and fear.

Furthermore, the connectivity issues in GB, particularly the limited access to the internet, hinder educational progress. In the digital age, where online resources are crucial, the lack of reliable internet infrastructure places students at a disadvantage, limiting their access to information and hindering the overall educational experience. It appears that the university is diversifying its investments into areas beyond education, such as water plants and infrastructure.

In summary, the pursuit of quality higher education in Gilgit Baltistan is marred by challenges ranging from administrative issues, financial constraints, and protests to connectivity problems. The lack of alternative institutions and limited internet access further hinder educational progress.

To address these issues, the government and university administrations must work together to ensure fair financial support, address faculty concerns, and create a safe and inclusive environment for students.

Diversifying investments is important, but the primary focus should remain on improving the quality of education and university administration needs to contract this expenditure and expand the educational expenses. Additionally, efforts should be made to enhance internet infrastructure, providing students with better access to online resources. Only through collaborative and targeted actions can the true potential of Gilgit Baltistan’s youth be unlocked, paving the way for a brighter educational future.

The author is from Gilgit-Baltistan and is currently pursuing an M.Phil degree