The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has implemented a four-day workweek for universities nationwide as part of the government’s austerity measures aimed at conserving fuel during the ongoing global energy crisis. This decision aligns with efforts to mitigate the impact of the US-Israel war on Iran, which has disrupted fuel supplies worldwide.
the notification, all public and private universities will operate from Monday through Thursday, remaining closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Concurrently, the Federal Ministry of Education declared that no physical classes will be held in educational institutions—including schools under HEC or federal administration—on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. However, universities and public institutions may continue to offer online classes on Fridays.
In a significant development earlier today, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the severe economic challenges Pakistan faces due to the ongoing Middle East conflict. Speaking at a high-level meeting, he emphasized the government’s commitment to reducing tensions and fostering peace in the region.
The conflict, which erupted on February 28 between the US, Israel, and Iran, has plunged the Middle East into turmoil. Following initial strikes by the US and Israel on Iran, Tehran responded by blocking the Strait of Hormuz—a vital shipping lane—and launching retaliatory attacks on Israeli and US military bases across the region.
Last month, the Prime Minister unveiled a comprehensive austerity and savings plan, highlighting the necessity of these measures amid the global fuel crisis. Pakistan, like many other countries, is grappling with fuel shortages caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for transporting fuel supplies worldwide.
Major oil-producing nations have encountered difficulties in delivering fuel to buyers due to Iran’s retaliatory actions against US bases in the Middle East. As a result of these supply disruptions, Pakistan has increased petrol and diesel prices by 20%, prompting the government to implement austerity and simplicity measures across the country.
