KARACHI: Several major universities in Pakistan have shifted to online classes as soaring petrol prices and fuel shortages disrupt transportation for students and staff.
The University of Karachi announced that all morning classes will move online from Monday, March 9, until the end of Ramadan. University officials said the decision was taken to ease commuting difficulties caused by rising fuel costs. Evening classes at the institution were already being held virtually.
The administration has also reduced petrol usage for official vehicles by 25 percent through March as part of broader conservation measures.
Meanwhile, the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology said its Karachi campus will conduct online classes from March 11 until the semester break on March 16. At its Islamabad campus, online learning will continue from March 9 to March 27. Non-teaching staff have been directed to work from home on most days, maintaining only 50 percent office attendance.
University officials also limited government vehicle fuel usage, allowing only up to 20 percent of the monthly quota in exceptional cases.
Similarly, NED University of Engineering and Technology has prepared for remote learning. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Tufail Ahmed said morning and evening sessions have been suspended for Ramadan, with online discussions and assignments replacing in-person classes.
Analysts say disruptions in global energy markets linked to Middle East tensions have driven petrol prices to record highs in Pakistan, putting pressure on public and private transport systems.
