Quetta: Due to heightened security threats, three universities in Balochistan have suspended on-campus classes indefinitely and shifted to virtual learning. The affected institutions include the University of Balochistan, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women’s University, and the University of Turbat. The decision follows recent attacks and growing security risks in the province.
This move comes just days after terrorists attempted to hijack the Jaffar Express near Sibi, an attack that resulted in the deaths of at least 26 hostages, including 18 security personnel.
A notification issued by the University of Balochistan stated that a meeting was held with deans and section heads, where it was decided that all campus activities would shift to virtual learning until further notice. However, the notification did not specify the reason for this decision. Faculty members were instructed to use existing digital resources and Learning Management Systems (LMS) to continue teaching.
Vice-Chancellor Zahoor Ahmed Bazai explained that protests on national highways had made it difficult for students from remote areas to reach campus, prompting the shift to online classes. He assured that students facing internet accessibility issues would be accommodated during the semester, and a final decision on online classes would be made after Eid-ul-Fitr.
"As soon as the blockade on highways is resolved, we will resume normal activities at the university because our primary goal is to ensure students continue their education," he said.
Similarly, Sardar Bahadur Khan Women’s University announced a transition to online classes, instructing students to attend virtual sessions during Ramadan.
Additionally, a meeting chaired by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Gul Hassan at the University of Turbat resulted in the suspension of all academic activities from Tuesday onward due to the ongoing security situation.
The meeting addressed concerns over students occupying the administrative block of the university. Authorities have decided to restrict entry for external elements and ensure the safety of university assets, staff, and students. A statement from the university instructed students to vacate hostels within two days.
The university’s registrar briefed the meeting on the student-led blockade of the administrative block since March 13. According to the registrar, students locked the entrance gate and staged a sit-in, preventing staff from entering their offices.
The protest reportedly began in response to disciplinary actions taken against a student for engaging in illegal activities. Protesters refused to lift the blockade, demanding that the hostel allotment of the penalized student be reinstated as a precondition for negotiations.
A committee of senior faculty members was formed on March 13 to resolve the matter through dialogue. Despite assurances that legitimate concerns would be addressed, the students continued their protest.
Meanwhile, the Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering, and Management Sciences (BUITEMS) has suspended its transport services for students. A decision regarding academic activities is expected on Wednesday, as examinations are currently ongoing.
