The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has announced that universities in Pakistan will resume physical classes starting April 1, 2026. This decision marks a significant shift back to normal academic routines following a period of online classes necessitated by fuel conservation measures.

The resumption of on-campus teaching activities applies to all public and private universities across the country. This move signals a return to traditional educational practices after temporary measures were introduced in response to the prevailing situation.

In conjunction with the announcement, the HEC awarded Rs 57 million in research grants to faculty members of Punjab University, recognizing their contributions to academic excellence. Prof Dr Muhammad Ali, the vice chancellor of the University of the Punjab, congratulated the award-winning faculty members, appreciating their research contributions.

The decision to resume physical classes follows earlier directives for austerity measures, which included a shift to a four-day work week announced on March 11, 2026. HEC instructed vice chancellors and heads of institutions to ensure compliance with the new directive, emphasizing the importance of returning to in-person education.

Previously, the HEC had implemented a four-day work week and transitioned classes to online formats due to fuel conservation efforts. The recent changes indicate a response to improving conditions that allow for the safe resumption of physical classes.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional measures that may be implemented to ensure the safety of students and faculty as they return to campus. Further developments are expected as universities prepare for the transition back to in-person learning.