KU students call off protest after successful negotiation with VC

The students of Karachi University protesting fee hikes and poor facilities at the campus have ended the demonstrations after negotiations with the varsity's vice chancellor (VC), Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqui went successful, The News reported.

The eight-day long protest — under the banner of the 'Student Organisations' Alliance — against 50% late fee and inadequate transportation services and poor infrastructure was called off on Friday following the approval of the demands.

What did the students demand?

• 50% increase in late fees should be reversed.
• Recent 120% hike in examination fees must be immediately withdrawn
• Rs5,000 re-admission fee should be abolished
• 'Business model' should not be implemented at Karachi University
• Notification regarding semester fees, which states that students unable to pay fees will not be allowed to sit for exams, should be revoked
• Rs1,500 charged under the "not eligible" category should be discontinued
• 200% increase in degree fees should be rolled back.
• Dilapidated condition of university's busses must be addressed
• Campus security should be improved.

According to the Student Alliance, VC Iraqui accepted 11 of the 14 demands of the students. However, the university administration claimed that only two demands had been accepted.

The late fee has been reduced from 50% to 10%, and the readmission fee will now be applicable after four semesters. Moreover, the examination fee will now be charged per course, and there will be a 10% increase in the semester fee.

Meanwhile, the authority to determine ineligible fees at KU will be granted to the chairpersons of the departments.