ISLAMABAD: Former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, are under increasing scrutiny as their flagship project, Al-Qadir University, struggles to meet expectations, despite significant hype.
Journalist Fakhar Durrani reported that an institution launched during Khan’s tenure to promote spiritual and religious education has enrolled only 200 students in four years, raising concerns about its viability and management.
“Despite its ambitious goals and political backing, Al-Qadir University has been plagued by legal controversies, accreditation hurdles, and concerns over financial irregularities.”
“The university, launched with much fanfare, has failed to deliver on its promises, enrolling only 200 students over four years despite substantial political backing and media hype,” Fakhar Durrani.
Legal and Financial Allegations
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has accused Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi of misusing authority and receiving millions in donations, alongside 458 kanals of land from Bahria Town Ltd, allegedly in exchange for legalising £190 million repatriated by the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA). The Accountability Court’s verdict on the case is scheduled for January 17, which could significantly impact the future of both the institution and the high-profile couple.
Accreditation Struggles
Al-Qadir University is yet to secure recognition from the Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC). Executive Director Dr Muhammad Amjad ur Rehman disclosed that the institution is currently operating as “Al-Qadir College,” relying on an annual affiliation certificate from Government College University due to its pending degree-awarding status. He admitted that the delay in accreditation has posed a significant obstacle to the institution’s progress.
“Our admission process is rigorous, but regulatory challenges have slowed our ability to achieve university status,” Dr Amjad said.
Enrollment and faculty profile
Since its establishment in 2021, the college has enrolled 200 students, with stringent admission criteria involving tests and interviews. The first batch of 23 students, comprising 16 females and seven males, will graduate in 2025. In 2024, 100 students were admitted, with 70 choosing Management Sciences and 30 opting for BS Islamic Studies.
Dr Amjad highlighted the institution’s faculty strength, including 12 regular members, seven of whom hold PhDs. Visiting faculty brings the total teaching staff to 80. “We are committed to maintaining academic quality despite the challenges,” he stated.
Financial challenges and student support
The institution’s financial struggles have been exacerbated by delays in obtaining charity status for the Al-Qadir Trust, impacting the flow of donations. With an annual expenditure of Rs6-7 million, the college relies on individual donors and training programs for funding. Scholarships cover 95 per cent of students, and the Luqma initiative provides free meals to 50 students for Rs 0.5 million per month.
Awaiting the Court’s Decision
The upcoming verdict in the Al-Qadir Trust case on January 17 will be pivotal. If convicted, Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi could face significant penalties, further complicating the university’s prospects.
As Fakhar Durrani points out, “The challenges faced by Al-Qadir University, from limited enrollment to regulatory delays, underscore the need for greater accountability and transparency in its operations.”
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