12 Punjab University Teachers Abscond with Crores in Scholarship Funds Meant for PhDs

In a stunning case of academic misconduct, 12 teachers from Punjab University have absconded with government-funded scholarships meant for higher studies abroad. These individuals were granted millions under a prestigious scholarship program aimed at building academic excellence through overseas PhDs.

However, after completing their studies, none of the 12 returned to fulfill their five-year service commitment at the university, a clause that was a condition of the scholarship agreement.

The scandal, which affects a total of 56 faculty members under the program, came to light after university officials began tracking compliance. The missing teachers include faculty from departments such as GIS, Engineering, Administrative Sciences, and Commerce. The highest individual default is by Khawaja Khurram Khurshid (IQTM) who owes Rs84 million, while others like Muhammad Nawaz and Usman Rahim also owe Rs72 million each.

The university has taken initial action by confiscating identity cards and requesting the Ministry of Interior and Foreign Affairs to block the absconders’ passports. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is expected to be involved in recovering the funds.

A spokesperson from Punjab University emphasized that these teachers are officially dismissed and legal action will be pursued for recovery. The scandal has raised serious questions about the oversight and accountability in academic grant programs.