Al-Qadir varsity enrols 200 students in four years

ISLAMABAD: Former prime minister Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi’s ambitious dream project, the Al-Qadir University, which landed them in legal trouble and possible jail terms in the coming few days, has struggled to gain traction, enrolling just 200 students over four years despite significant hype and political backing.

Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi are facing NAB cases over allegations of receiving millions in donations and 458 kanals of land from Bahria Town Ltd in exchange for legalizing £190 million repatriated by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), raising serious questions about misuse of authority and financial irregularities.

The highly publicized Al-Qadir University, launched during Imran Khan’s tenure to promote spiritual and religious education, remains unrecognized by the Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC). The institution relies on an annual affiliation certificate from Government College University, highlighting its struggle to achieve official accreditation despite initial promises and publicity.

Dr. Muhammad Amjad ur Rehman, Executive Director of Al-Qadir University, confirmed the institute is yet to be recognized by the Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC). “It is Al-Qadir College now because the degree-awarding status is yet to be received from the provincial higher education commission,” he stated, reflecting ongoing accreditation challenges.

About the total number of enrolled students, Dr Amjad revealed that the institution enrolled 41 students in its first year and 60 in the next, with a total strength of 200 students since 2021. “Our admission criteria are quite strict, requiring students to pass both an admission test and an interview. Additionally, we are facing some regulatory challenges in securing accreditation,” he stated.

The university’s struggle for recognition by the Punjab Higher Education Commission has further complicated its progress, despite initial claims of establishing a premier institution for spiritual and religious education during former prime minister Imran Khan’s tenure.

To a question about the total number of teaching staff, Dr. Amjad stated that Al-Qadir College currently has 12 regular faculty members, including seven PhD holders and five with Masters’ degrees. “With the addition of visiting faculty, the total teaching staff reaches 80,” he said, highlighting efforts to maintain academic quality despite ongoing challenges with accreditation and limited student enrollment.

When asked about the fee structure, the Executive Director of Al Qadir College said, “We offer scholarships to 95% of the total students, ensuring education is accessible to deserving candidates. We also provide free meals to students through our ‘Luqma initiative,’ benefiting 50 students and costing Rs 0.5 million per month, funded by local donors.”

He further revealed that around 95% of the students reside in the college hostels, which house students from all the provinces of the country. The comprehensive support system aims to promote inclusivity and provide equal opportunities to students from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the college’s commitment to making education accessible despite financial and operational challenges, he said.

He further informed that the first batch enrolled in 2021, comprising 23 students—16 females and 7 males—will graduate in 2025. “In 2024, 100 students were admitted, with 70 choosing Management Sciences and 30 opting for BS Islamic Studies. Most students prefer management studies over Islamic studies,” he said.

The Executive Director revealed the college’s annual expenditure was approximately Rs 6-7 million. He also highlighted challenges in securing donations due to the pending approval of the trust’s charity status by government departments. “Despite this, we rely on revenue models such as research, training, and individual donors who fund students on a need basis,” he said, emphasizing efforts to sustain operations and support students despite financial constraints.

It is important to note here that Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi both are awaiting the Accountability Court’s verdict in the Al-Qadir Trust case, which has been delayed three times in the past month. The verdict is now expected on January 17, with both facing potential heavy sentences for charges of misuse of authority in establishing the Al Qadir Trust.