The federal government plans to introduce a levy on tobacco products to finance the operational expenses of a new Daanish University being constructed in Islamabad. The Education Ministry has formally requested the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to implement the levy, according to a report by Dawn.
The university is being built using part of the £190 million repatriated from the UK in a high-profile case involving a Pakistani property tycoon. The proposed tobacco levy will help cover the university’s running costs once it becomes operational.
Officials were also informed about a recent roadshow held in China and Turkey aimed at attracting consultancy firms and fostering international academic partnerships. Twelve foreign and three local firms submitted bids, which were opened on June 16 and are currently under evaluation. The lowest bidder will be responsible for finalizing the project design and supervising its implementation.
The university’s charter and trust deed have been prepared and are undergoing vetting. The Prime Minister has directed that the university, along with Daanish schools, be equipped with smart boards, e-libraries, and other modern facilities, including the establishment of a world-class digital library.
In addition to the Islamabad university, the federal government is constructing five Daanish schools in Balochistan, one in Karachi, three in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), three in Chitral, and three in Gilgit-Baltistan.
