Federal Budget Raises HEC Development Funding, Keeps Recurring Grant Unchanged
ISLAMABAD — The federal government has allocated Rs. 112 billion for the Higher Education Commission (HEC) in the Budget 2026–27, increasing development spending while keeping the recurring grant unchanged, according to official budget documents.
The development budget for HEC has been raised to Rs. 46 billion, compared to Rs. 39.4 billion in the previous fiscal year. The increase reflects additional funding for ongoing higher education projects across the country.
Officials said the allocation includes funding for 131 development schemes worth Rs. 43.8 billion, along with Rs. 2.2 billion for initiatives under the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme.
However, the recurring grant remains fixed at Rs. 66.4 billion, continuing a trend of limited growth despite rising operational costs in the higher education sector.
Rising Financial Pressure on Universities
HEC had earlier projected a higher recurring funding requirement due to increased enrolment, inflation, rising salaries, and higher utility expenses in public universities. Despite revised estimates, the operational grant was not increased.
Officials noted that the gap between funding needs and allocations is placing financial pressure on public sector universities, particularly federally chartered institutions, affecting academic and research activities.
Youth and Education Development Projects
Under the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, funding has been allocated for several initiatives, including the Green Youth Movement, National Innovation Award, Youth Development Centres, Kamyab Jawan Talent Hunt Sports League, National Volunteer Corps, and e-sports training programmes.
The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training has also received Rs. 36.3 billion for 30 development projects. These include funding for Daanish Schools, infrastructure development, special education, teacher training, and skill development programmes under NAVTTC.
