Call for Reinstating 25% Tax Rebate
The Federation of All Pakistan Universities Academic Staff Associations (FAPUASA) has urged the government to restore the 25% tax rebate for teachers and researchers, arguing that educators deserve the same consideration as cricketers, who have been granted tax exemptions for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Allegations of Preferential Treatment
FAPUASA President Dr. Amjad Abbas Magsi criticized what he called “preferential treatment” towards international athletes while disregarding the financial concerns of university faculty. He highlighted that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) revoked the rebate in December 2024, leading to substantial salary deductions for academic staff.
Unexpected Tax Burden on Educators
Despite earlier assurances in the June 2024 budget, the tax relief was abruptly withdrawn. Universities have now been instructed to deduct full taxes and recover arrears from the past three years, placing an additional financial burden on teachers.
Crisis in Higher Education
Dr. Magsi warned that the higher education sector is already struggling with chronic underfunding, bureaucratic interference, and governance issues. He stressed that public-sector universities, which primarily serve students from middle- and lower-income backgrounds, are at risk of deterioration if such financial pressures persist.
Threat of Nationwide Protests
FAPUASA has threatened nationwide demonstrations if the government does not reinstate the tax rebate. As university teachers continue their protests against the FBR’s decision, they emphasize that fair taxation policies are crucial to maintaining the quality and stability of Pakistan’s education sector.
