THIS refers to money-minting tactics of a private university having two campuses in Lahore. When a student is enrolled, he is charged Rs7,500 as security fee for hostel facility. The atmosphere at the university is not congenial for studies as students use drugs.

When a student leaves the hostel, he is not refunded the security deposit. The university, according to its policy published on its website, can charge quarterly fee of Rs26,000 for a four-year BS Computer Science programme. They adhere to their policy for the first two quarters, and then demand Rs26,000 at the beginning of the semester and the same amount before the final examinations. In case the student does not pay the amount, they do not allow the student to appear in the examinations.

On starting of a new semester, the university administration again demands Rs26000. In brief, they charge Rs26000 thrice in two quarters as against Rs52000 per semester.

The university does not follow its academic schedule which is four and half months for each semester. The academic schedule has been curtailed to serve university’s financial interest.

Recently, a faculty member of the computer department confirmed that the marks obtained by students had been changed by the university administration. Students were failed by the university administration, although they had passed the examinations.

When the result of the fifth semester of BS Computer Science was declared a number of meritorious students were either placed in D category or asked to appear in supplementary examinations.

A failed paper or supplementary examinations mean you have to pay additional Rs14,000 to the university. Students are doubtful about the authenticity of the examinations’ results. They do not have faith in the university administration, keeping in view its money-minting tactics.

When students challenged the result and asked for rechecking of the papers, a fee of Rs2,000 per paper was charged. The university does not have the courage and confidence to show the answer sheets even after receiving fee.

When students tell the administration, the matter could be reported to the Higher Education Commission, the university administration says it is least bothered and students should go ahead.

The owner of the varsity, on the one hand, arranges Iftar dinner for the poor during Ramazan, on the other hand, is practicing unethical tactics to earn money. Students know that the university owner has a political background and uses his influence.

A high-powered committee either formed by the Governor of Punjab, who is also the chancellor of the university, or by the HEC, should look into these malpractices to save the future of talented students.

ADNAN FAROOQ Lahore