Enrollment in Universities Decreases by 13%

University enrollment in Pakistan has seen a significant decline, according to the Economic Survey 2024-25 released just ahead of the federal budget. The report reveals that the total number of students enrolled in higher education institutions fell by 13 percent, dropping to 1.94 million in FY 2023. This decrease comes despite the presence of 269 universities across the country. The survey attributes this drop to a range of factors, including economic challenges and shifting demographics. However, there is a slight silver lining: enrollment is projected to rise modestly by 0.8 percent in FY 2024, reaching an estimated 1.95 million students. This downward trend in university enrollment stands in contrast to modest increases at other education levels, highlighting ongoing challenges in access to and retention in higher education. Policymakers and education experts have expressed concern, noting that sustained investment and targeted reforms are needed to reverse the decline and ensure more young Pakistanis can pursue university degrees.