IN Pakistan, a PhD is widely regarded as a symbol of intellectual excellence and national progress. However, behind this prestigious title lies a challenging reality. For many doctoral scholars, the journey is marked not only by research and discovery, but also by resource constraints, institutional inefficiencies and personal struggles.
One of the most pressing issues is the lack of adequate research infrastructure. In many universities, laboratories are either poorly equipped or rely on outdated instruments, limiting the quality of research. Even when facilities are avail-able, access to essential consumables, such as chemicals, reagents and analytical tools, is often inconsistent. Delays in procure-ment processes further disrupt research timelines, forcing students to either wait indefinitely or manage resources on their own.
Supervision is another critical factor shaping the PhD experience. Faculty members are often overburdened with teaching and administrative responsi-bilities, leaving limited time for effective mentorship. As a result, many students receive minimal guidance, with super-vision reduced to formal check-ins rather than meaningful academic engagement.
However, where dedicated, honest and supportive supervisors are available, they become a significant source of strength for their students. Good supervision can transform the doctoral journey into a productive and intellectually enriching experience, helping scholars navigate challenges and remain motivated despite constraints.
Financial challenges further exacerbate these difficulties. Although stipends are available under various funding schemes, they are often insufficient to meet rising living costs. Moreover, delays in stipend disbursement create additional stress, making it difficult for students to manage their daily expenses. Funding for con-ferences, publications and training oppor-tunities is also limited, restricting academic exposure and professional growth.
Beyond these structural issues, weak linkages between academia and industry limit the practical application of research, reducing its potential impact on economic and social development.
Moreover, the mental health implications of these challenges cannot be ignored. The uncertainty, workload and lack of institutional support often lead to stress, burnout and isolation among doctoral students. In many institutions, counselling services and mental health resources are either limited or non-existent, leaving students to survive on their own.
These combined factors contribute to a growing trend of skilled researchers seeking opportunities abroad, where better funding, infrastructure and career prospects are available. This brain drain represents a significant loss for the country’s academic and research landscape.
Despite all these challenges, many scholars in Pakistan continue to demons-trate resilience and commitment. To improve this situation, greater institutional and policy-level support is essential. The government must prioritise research as a national agenda and allocate sufficient funding, while the Higher Education Commission (HEC) needs to further strengthen its role for improving research facilities.
A collaborative effort involving the government, the HEC and all university administrations can create an enabling environment where doctoral scholars may not just survive, but contribute to a knowledge-driven future for Pakistan.
Aiza Javed
Islamabad
Published in Dawn, June 8th, 2026