Students at PMAS Arid Agriculture University have staged a protest against the deplorable living conditions at the Boys’ Iqbal Hostel, demanding urgent reforms and the resignation of the current hostel warden, Dr. Ikram Niazi. The demonstrators have voiced concerns over persistent neglect and serious sanitation issues that they say are detrimental to their well-being and academic performance.
The protesting students, through circulating videos and social media posts, have detailed a range of grievances that highlight the deteriorating state of the hostel. Reports include leaking ceilings, broken and unhygienic washrooms, lack of clean drinking water, and inadequate sanitation facilities. They also pointed out unreliable internet connectivity, which hampers their studies and overall experience at the hostel.
The primary source of student anger appears to be directed at Warden Dr. Ikram Niazi, whom they accuse of failing to respond to repeated complaints over several weeks. The students have called for his resignation, asserting that if he cannot fulfill his responsibilities, he should step down to allow someone more attentive and caring to take charge. A student representative expressed, “If he cannot fulfill his duties, he should resign and make way for someone who genuinely cares.”
In their appeal to the university’s Vice-Chancellor, students contrasted the conditions at the Boys’ Hostel with the management of the Girls’ Hostel, which is overseen by Warden Dr. Bushra. They praised Dr. Bushra for her responsible and prompt management, emphasizing the need for similar leadership at the boys’ facility. The students concluded that the university should appoint wardens who prioritize student welfare and act swiftly to resolve issues.
The protest underscores ongoing concerns about hostel maintenance and student care at PMAS Arid Agriculture University, calling for immediate action to improve living conditions and hold responsible officials accountable.
