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Aftab Maken
ISLAMABAD: Student protests at Quaid-i-Azam University entered a fifth consecutive day on May 5, as tensions between students and the administration showed no signs of easing despite calls for dialogue.
The unrest began in late April after several students were barred from sitting examinations over unpaid fees, triggering demonstrations led by groups from departments including Gender Studies. Protesters said they had approached multiple administrative offices, including the dean and vice chancellor, but failed to secure relief for financially constrained students.
The situation escalated when Interim Vice Chancellor Dr Zafar Nawaz Jaspal reportedly arrived at the protest site with security personnel, leading to a confrontation. Student groups alleged aggressive conduct by officials, including physical scuffles and the removal of a Sindhi ajrak, a cultural symbol, intensifying anger among protesters. Police were later deployed on campus to control the situation.
Student organisations, including the Quaidian Students Federation and Mehran Students Council, have continued sit-ins at key demands such as the transport point, while insisting their demonstrations remain peaceful. They say the protests aim to highlight broader issues beyond fees, including inadequate hostel facilities, transport shortages, weak infrastructure and limited scholarship opportunities.
The university administration has maintained that classes and official duties are continuing as scheduled, with some notices stressing mandatory attendance. However، ongoing protests have disrupted transport services and routine campus operations, affecting students’ daily activities.
Protesters argue that their demands reflect long-standing grievances and recurring governance issues at the university. They have called for meaningful engagement with authorities to address concerns over student welfare and dignity.
While student leaders insist the movement remains peaceful, concerns persist about possible further clashes if the deadlock continues. No breakthrough has been reported so far, with both sides appearing entrenched in their positions.
The ongoing demonstrations highlight deeper structural challenges at Quaid-i-Azam University, particularly financial pressures on students and strained relations between the administration and student bodies. Observers say sustained dialogue will be key to restoring normal academic activity at QAU.
