IIUI students protest hostel seat cancellations, short notice to vacate rooms

Islamabad:The administration of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) issued a notification that has caused unrest among a large number of students. The notification cancels hostel seats for around 4,500 students and directs them to remove their belongings within two days.

The students, who had gone home for summer vacations, are now required to vacate their rooms between August 16 and 21, just before classes are scheduled to resume in the first week of the next month.

The Provost Office, Hostels Management issued the notification on August 15, citing the need to streamline hostel procedures, re-allot seats, and accommodate foreign students. This decision has sparked protests from students who feel that cancelling all hostel seats is unfair and disruptive. The students are also unhappy with the administration's handling of the situation, particularly its lack of transparency and the suddenness of the directive. The Students Action Committee, led by Ahmad Abdullah, expressed their concerns through a protest demonstration at the National Press Club. They claim that the administration's actions are causing unnecessary distress and are calling for a peaceful resolution to the issue. They also urge the university management to refrain from politicizing the matter.

Ahmad Abdullah highlighted that the administration's actions are causing inconvenience to students, especially those who live in remote areas and are unable to quickly comply with the short notice to vacate the hostels. Additionally, the students are not being allowed to enter the university premises, as the summer break classes have been shifted online. Overall, the students are seeking a fair and reasonable solution to the problem and hope that the university administration will address their concerns in a transparent and equitable manner.