ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s public universities may soon face a serious talent shortage. Stagnant salaries and rising taxes are pushing highly qualified professors to the edge.
According to Beyond Time News, faculty members under the Tenure Track System (TTS) have not received a salary increase since 2021. Meanwhile, their tax burden has jumped by nearly 81%.
No Pay Raise Despite Rising Inflation
TTS professors last received a raise in 2021. Since then, inflation has surged multiple times, including a record 38%.
Living costs have increased sharply. However, salaries have remained the same. Data shared with the Ministry of Finance and the Senate Standing Committee on Finance shows prices have risen by about 87% over five years.
Higher Taxes, Same Income
TTS faculty now pay significantly more in taxes. Changes in tax rates and slabs have increased their financial burden.
Unlike them, teachers under the Basic Pay Scale (BPS) system saw a 71% salary increase. While not ideal, it helped them cope with inflation.
Growing Risk of Brain Drain
The Tenure Track System started in 2002 to attract top PhD talent. It offered competitive, performance-based salaries.
Today, that advantage has faded. Many researchers now feel undervalued. As a result, some are considering opportunities abroad.
Experts warn this trend could lead to a brain drain. It may also weaken Pakistan’s higher education system.
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Government Promises, But No Final Decision
Officials have held meetings with faculty representatives. Minister of State for Finance Bilal Kayani recently discussed possible relief.
The government may offer a one-time salary increase. However, it may exclude some allowances, reducing the benefit.
Earlier, a committee led by Ahsan Iqbal proposed linking TTS salaries with the BPS system. It also suggested a 35% additional allowance. So far, authorities have not implemented these recommendations.
Thousands of Professors Affected
Around 4,000 faculty members face this issue. The Association of Pakistan Tenure Track Teachers (APTTA) continues talks with the government.
Officials say the case is under review. However, they have not given a clear timeline.
A Critical Challenge for Higher Education
Professors now struggle with rising costs and stagnant income. If the issue continues, universities may lose skilled talent.
This situation could harm research quality and academic progress in Pakistan.
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