Mondelēz Pakistan has secured five awards at the Dragons of Pakistan 2026, led by a strong performance from its Cadbury Selections Valentine’s campaign. The company, which produces Cadbury and Tang products in Pakistan, collected two Gold Dragons and three Black Dragons across its brand portfolio. Cadbury Selections Leads Awards Tally The Cadbury Selections Valentine’s campaign claimed two Gold Dragons and one Black Dragon. The three awards made it one of Pakistan’s most decorated marketing campaigns of 2026. Cadbury Dairy Milk received another Black Dragon, while powdered beverage brand Tang collected the fifth award. The results gave Mondelēz recognition across both its chocolate and beverage categories. Gold Dragons recognise the highest-scoring entries within the national programme. Dragons organisers award Black Dragon certificates to campaigns that finish just below the Bronze Dragon scoring threshold. The award structure places a strong emphasis on measurable outcomes alongside strategy and creative execution. Entrants can compete across categories including integrated marketing, digital activity, content creation, public relations and brand-building campaigns. Managing Director Credits Teams and Partners Mamoon Javed, Managing Director of Mondelēz Pakistan, said the five awards reflected the work of the company’s employees and external partners. “This recognition is a proud testament to the strength of our global brands and the passion of our teams and partners who consistently find meaningful ways to connect with consumers. At Mondelēz Pakistan, our brands remain at the heart of consumers’ lives, woven into the moments and celebrations that matter most and this milestone fuels our ambition to continue leading with purpose and consumer-first innovation,” Javed said. The company presented the wins as evidence of creative depth across its portfolio rather than success from a single brand. Cadbury Selections dominated the tally, but Cadbury Dairy Milk and Tang broadened the recognition. The Valentine’s campaign centred on gifting and personal connections, a space where Cadbury has built a strong presence. Mondelēz said its brands aim to remain connected with celebrations and everyday consumer moments. Pakistan Programme Links Winners to Asia The Dragons of Pakistan forms part of the wider Dragons of Asia marketing communications platform. The regional awards programme has recognised work from agencies and brand owners across Asia since 2000. Organisers launched the Pakistan country programme in 2023. It evaluates campaigns on effectiveness and results, not creative presentation alone. National winners can also gain recognition within the wider Asian programme. An international jury of marketing professionals assesses entries under the competition’s evaluation process. Mondelēz Pakistan Limited operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of US-listed Mondelēz International. The global company sells chocolates, biscuits, gum, candy and powdered beverages in more than 150 countries. Cadbury Dairy Milk and Tang remain two of the company’s flagship brands in Pakistan. Mondelēz says both hold leading positions within their respective product categories. The five Dragons add to the company’s marketing credentials and highlight the role of locally developed campaigns in supporting global consumer brands.
Susan Sarandon Palestine Support Still Costs Her Film Roles
Oscar-winning actor Susan Sarandon says Hollywood studios and talent agencies continue to deny her work because of her support for Palestinians. The 79-year-old made the remarks at the Venice Film Festival while promoting The Echo Chamber, her latest film. She became one of the first major Hollywood figures to speak against Israel’s war in Gaza. Hollywood Consequences Continue “I think that the narrative has completely changed in terms of the historical relevance of Palestine and the ties of Zionists with America and our politics,” Sarandon said. “That has been a major revelation for people, how much money the United States gives to Israel, nobody really understood that.” Recent polling supports her view that American attitudes have shifted. A February Gallup survey found 41 percent of Americans sympathised more with Palestinians, compared with 36 percent for Israelis. Pew Research Center reported in April that 60 percent of US adults viewed Israel unfavourably. That figure had increased from 53 percent in 2025. Sarandon said changing public sentiment had not ended the professional consequences. “I’ve still had movies taken away recently because there are agencies that are telling people not to hire me still,” she told reporters. “But that’s the power structure. I think [among] people, certainly internationally, I feel welcome.” UTA dropped Sarandon as a client in November 2023 after comments she made at pro-Palestinian rallies. She later apologised for the wording of one remark while continuing to support Palestinian rights. Palestine Debate Reaches Venice The Gaza conflict has also shaped debate around the Venice festival. Activists urged organisers to raise the Palestinian flag for Palestinian filmmakers screening work at the event. Artistic director Alberto Barbera rejected the request because Italy does not formally recognise Palestine as a state. He instead highlighted films showing the experiences and struggles of ordinary Palestinians. Sarandon said major studios remained especially resistant to hiring outspoken critics of Israel. “If it is a major studio, I think it’s not just with me but with other people who have been told that that is impossible,” she said. She thanked The Echo Chamber director Andrea Pallaoro for casting her despite the industry pressure. “I found my family, I found my people and I’m OK,” Sarandon said, drawing prolonged applause at the press conference. New Film Competes for Golden Lion Sarandon won the Academy Award for Dead Man Walking. Her extensive career also includes The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Bull Durham and Thelma & Louise. In The Echo Chamber, she plays an ageing singer who hires a music producer recovering from drug addiction. The pair work together on her planned comeback album. The film adapts the final screenplay by late Italian filmmaker Bernardo Bertolucci. Its cast also includes Alicia Vikander and Luca Marinelli. The Echo Chamber is one of 21 films competing for the Venice festival’s Golden Lion. Organisers will present the award on September 12.
ABHI PGT Prediction Contest Offers PKR 50,000 Prize
ABHI Microfinance Bank has launched a Pakistan’s Got Talent prediction activity that offers viewers a chance to win PKR 50,000. The bank introduced the campaign in collaboration with Pakistan’s Got Talent, also known as PGT. Participants must predict which contestants will reach the talent show’s finals. How Viewers Can Enter The entry process begins with downloading the ABHI Bank App. Users can then access the prediction activity, select the contestants they expect to reach the finals and submit their choice. ABHI has promoted the campaign with the message: “Make your prediction. Take your chance.” The bank said the activity would test participants’ talent-spotting skills while bringing viewers closer to the show. It also aims to create an interactive experience for existing customers and talent-show followers across Pakistan. Read More: Saudi Shariah Approval Gives ABHI Fresh Boost in Kingdom A correct prediction provides a chance to win the PKR 50,000 cash prize. The announcement does not say whether ABHI will select one winner or divide the amount among multiple winners. It also does not specify the entry deadline, draw procedure, age requirement or rules for resolving multiple correct predictions. Participants should review the campaign terms inside the app before submitting an entry. Pakistan’s Got Talent Builds Nationwide Audience Pakistan’s Got Talent is the official Pakistani version of the international Got Talent entertainment franchise. Its first season premiered in July 2026 and features performers from several disciplines. The competition has showcased musicians, singers, dancers, magicians, stunt performers and other entertainers. Contestants advance through different rounds as judges and audiences assess their performances. ABHI’s activity asks viewers to identify potential finalists before the competition reaches its closing stages. This approach turns audience interest in individual contestants into direct participation through the banking app. The collaboration also gives ABHI access to viewers who may not regularly engage with traditional banking campaigns. For PGT, the promotion encourages fans to follow contestants and upcoming episodes more closely. App Combines Banking and Audience Engagement The ABHI Bank App previously operated under the name FINCA Pay. Its services include digital account access, money transfers, mobile top-ups, electronic statements and payments to more than 500 billers. Google Play lists more than one million downloads for the app. ABHI also announced earlier in 2026 that the platform had reached 100,000 active users. ABHI Microfinance Bank operates as a regulated microfinance bank in Pakistan. The bank says it serves customers through digital services and a physical network covering cities across the country. Read More: ABHI Expands in Saudi Arabia With New NOX Group Partnership The PGT promotion reflects its effort to combine financial products with entertainment-led customer engagement. It also gives the bank a timely way to encourage app downloads during the talent show’s first season. Interested viewers must download the ABHI Bank App, make their finalist prediction and follow the published campaign instructions. A successful prediction could put them in contention for the PKR 50,000 prize.
Kevin Pietersen’s Surprise England Return Ends 12 Years in Exile
The England and Wales Cricket Board has appointed Kevin Pietersen as a specialist mentor for its men’s white-ball teams. The move brings Pietersen back into the England setup for the first time since his international career ended in 2014. He will help Brendon McCullum’s squad prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Return Begins Against Sri Lanka Pietersen will join McCullum’s coaching staff for England’s series against Sri Lanka later this month. He will work alongside Marcus Trescothick, Tim Southee, Jeetan Patel and Sarah Taylor. The 46-year-old will remain involved during England’s white-ball tours of Australia and South Africa. He will also support home series against Pakistan and New Zealand next summer. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jessica Pietersen (@jessicalibertyx) The programme leads into the World Cup, jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. The ICC has confirmed 12 venues across the three countries. “I am immensely proud to have been asked to help this team on their journey to win a World Cup in South Africa. Putting on the England uniform again for the first time since 2014 is a profound honour and a deeply special moment,” Pietersen said. “We have an incredibly talented white-ball squad and I am excited to get in the trenches and work relentlessly hard with these players to maximise their potential. “To be a part of Brendon’s think tank over the next 12 months is a fantastic opportunity, and I cannot wait to get started.” Experience and Local Knowledge Pietersen developed his cricket in South Africa before moving to England. His knowledge of local pitches and conditions could strengthen England’s planning. The explosive middle-order batter scored almost 14,000 international runs across Tests, ODIs and T20Is. He contributed to major Ashes victories and England’s 2010 T20 World Cup triumph. England won its first ODI World Cup on home soil in 2019. The team now hopes to reclaim the trophy in southern Africa. Read More: Why England Is Banning Energy Drinks for Children McCullum expects Pietersen to work closely with England’s batters. “I’m particularly excited for our batters to get the opportunity to work with him,” McCullum said. “KP has a unique understanding of what it takes to perform at the highest level, which will be hugely valuable to our players. “We’ve always respected each other and had a strong appreciation for what the other brings to the game, so I’m really looking forward to working together.” Controversial Exit Followed by Reconciliation Pietersen’s England career ended after a 5-0 Ashes whitewash in Australia in 2013-14. Reports cited dressing-room tensions and disagreements with team management. He finished as England’s leading run-scorer in that series. However, officials told him he no longer featured in their plans despite his desire to continue. The decision produced an acrimonious split and kept him outside the national setup for 12 years. His appointment now represents a significant reconciliation. England hopes Pietersen’s attacking insight, international experience and South African background can sharpen its preparations for the 2027 World Cup.
Lionel Messi’s Son Is Already Making His Mark at Inter Miami
Mateo Messi, the second son of football great Lionel Messi, has captained an Inter Miami Academy team to a Copa Naples title in Florida. The youth triumph quickly attracted attention online. Supporters celebrated the result as another early milestone for a member of football’s most famous family. However, initial coverage incorrectly described Mateo as 13. He was born on September 11, 2015, making him 10 during the tournament and four days short of his 11th birthday. Read More: Spain Breaks Messi’s Heart to Win the 2026 FIFA World Cup Copa Naples Success Opens New Academy Season Inter Miami entered teams from the under-eight through under-12 age groups at the 2026 Copa Naples. The tournament opened the academy’s 2026-27 campaign. Matches took place at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples, Florida, on September 5 and 6. The club published schedules, brackets and possible final times before the event. Mateo featured with Inter Miami’s under-12 setup, according to tournament-related social media coverage. Posts showed him celebrating with the trophy and highlighted his leadership role. Read More: Messi Loses World Cup Record as Mbappe Hits Historic 22nd Goal One widely circulated post stated: “Mateo Messi captained Inter Miami Academy to become Champions of the Naples Cup.” Inter Miami’s pre-tournament schedule listed Pink and Black teams in the under-12 Gold division. The Pink side faced Forge FC, MVP Futbol Club and T11 during group play. A first-place finish in its bracket offered a place in Sunday’s final. Inter Miami had not published a detailed match report naming players or confirming individual statistics when reports about Mateo’s captaincy appeared. Mateo Builds His Own Football Identity Mateo is one of Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo’s three sons. His brothers, Thiago and Ciro, have also trained and played within Inter Miami’s youth structure. Family profiles have often described Mateo as energetic, competitive and playful. Those traits have also appeared in clips of him playing football and reacting passionately during his father’s matches. Mateo Messi😀campeón de la Copa Naples con el @InterMiamiAcad ! pic.twitter.com/TYkr2u8cQE — KING MESSI 10 (@messi10_rey) September 6, 2026 The Copa Naples victory now gives him a notable team honour at youth level. It also adds to growing public interest in his development. Mateo still remains at an early stage, so comparisons with his father require caution. Youth football focuses on technical development, teamwork and decision-making rather than senior-level expectations. Following a Celebrated Family Legacy Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023 after an extraordinary career with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. The Argentine captain has won eight Ballon d’Or awards and led his country to the 2022 World Cup title. His arrival transformed Inter Miami’s global profile and drew greater attention to its academy. That spotlight now follows his sons whenever they appear in tournaments or training clips. Mateo’s Naples success does not predict a professional career. It does, however, show his continued progress in a structured academy environment. For supporters, the sight of another Messi lifting a trophy created an emotional link with Lionel Messi’s career. For Mateo, the result represents a childhood achievement earned alongside his teammates.
Why Is Satellite Internet Still Not Available in Pakistan?
Pakistan has created its first licensing path for consumer satellite broadband, but unfinished space regulations continue to delay commercial services. Until now, satellite connectivity mainly served businesses through VSAT links, while consumers lacked a dedicated market framework. Starlink began discussions with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority in December 2021. The federal cabinet approved the National Space Policy in December 2023. Authorities introduced Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board rules two months later. PTA then finalised a fixed satellite services licence in April 2026. Fixed satellite licence sets strict controls The FSS licence allows broadband, backhaul, bandwidth supply and corporate intranets. It excludes direct-to-device links, mobile satellite services, broadcasting and earth stations in motion. A passenger therefore cannot use an FSS connection on a Karachi-Islamabad flight. A phone also cannot connect directly to a satellite under this category. PTA published a separate draft licence for inflight satellite services in May. Read More: PTA Approves Ufone-Telenor Rebranding, But There Is a Catch Low Earth orbit operators must incorporate locally and secure a Pakistani licence. They must build a gateway earth station within 18 months, route domestic traffic through it and store user data inside Pakistan. Operators must also install lawful interception capability before launching service. Officials link these safeguards to national security and content controls. Terrestrial telecom companies face similar duties. India, Bangladesh and the United States also impose interception requirements. Fees and regional exclusions draw concern The proposed regime charges a $500,000 initial licence fee. Recurring charges total about 2.5 percent of gross revenue, covering the licence, Universal Service Fund and spectrum. A separate 6 percent levy would support a space research and development fund controlled by the Strategic Plans Division. The combined burden reaches roughly 8.5 percent. The comparative rate stands at about 4 percent in India and 3 to 5.5 percent in Bangladesh. The FSS licence excludes Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. Yet remote valleys and border settlements there have some of Pakistan’s weakest terrestrial coverage. India instead applies tighter controls near borders. These include monitoring zones, geofenced terminals and suspension powers during hostilities. Overlapping approvals slow market entry Applicants must complete SECP incorporation, gain PSARB clearance, obtain a PTA licence and secure spectrum from the Frequency Allocation Board. Critics also question PSARB’s composition. Security and space bodies hold five of its eight seats, including three Suparco officials and a co-opted ISI representative. Only two members represent civilian ministries. Industry, academia and telecom experts have no formal seat. Suparco also runs the PSARB secretariat, operates PAKSAT and holds first refusal rights for government satellite business. That structure places a market participant close to regulatory decisions. Read More: No Signal, No School: Internet Crisis Hits Girls’ Education in KP India separated IN-SPACe from ISRO. Bangladesh used its telecom regulator and launched Starlink within seven months. At least four global operators seek entry, including Starlink, Amazon’s Project Kuiper and China’s Qianfan. Operators broadly accept local gateways, data storage and interception rules used in Nigeria and Bangladesh. “The final piece remaining is the detailed regulatory framework.” PSARB hired London-based Access Partnership, which submitted recommendations months ago. Authorities have not released the document. Further delay risks leaving remote communities offline while neighbouring markets move ahead.
Five Surprising Drinks That Could Be Healthier Than You Think
Green tea remains popular for its antioxidant content, particularly epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG. Researchers have studied this catechin for its potential anti-inflammatory effects. However, experts say several other drinks also provide significant antioxidant compounds. These include coffee, berry juice, hibiscus tea, pomegranate juice and hot cocoa. Read More: 5 Morning Drinks to Kickstart Weight Loss in 2026 Antioxidants help the body neutralise free radicals. Excess free-radical activity can cause oxidative stress, which may damage cells and contribute to chronic disease. However, antioxidant content varies by ingredients, preparation, processing and serving size. A higher laboratory antioxidant score also does not guarantee better health outcomes. 1. Coffee Coffee contains chlorogenic acids and other polyphenols with antioxidant properties. Its widespread consumption can make it a major source of antioxidants in many diets. “Coffee is a very underappreciated source of antioxidants, primarily in the form of chlorogenic acids (CGA) and other polyphenols,” registered dietitian Karen E. Todd said. “However, because coffee is a commonly consumed beverage and a regular part of many people’s diets, it can actually be a large contributor to the intake of antioxidants in the average person’s diet.” Studies have explored chlorogenic acids for their possible role in reducing markers associated with oxidative stress. Added sugar and high-fat creamers, however, can change coffee’s overall nutritional value. 2. Berry Juice Berries contain anthocyanins, which produce their deep red, purple and blue colours. Researchers have studied these antioxidants for potential cardiovascular and metabolic benefits. Todd recommends minimally processed berry juices with little or no added sugar. Acai, maqui and wild blueberry juices can offer concentrated amounts of antioxidant compounds. Whole berries remain a valuable option because they also provide dietary fibre. Many commercial fruit drinks contain added sugar and limited real juice. 3. Hibiscus Tea Hibiscus tea contains polyphenols and develops a deep red colour after brewing. People can drink it hot or cold. Research has examined hibiscus for potential effects on blood pressure and LDL cholesterol oxidation. However, it should not replace prescribed treatment for high blood pressure or cholesterol. Read More: How Much Sugar Is Too Much? Doctors Finally Agree on the Limits Consumers taking medicines should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making hibiscus tea a regular part of their routine. 4. Pomegranate Juice Pomegranate juice contains anthocyanins, ellagitannins and other polyphenols. These compounds help neutralise free radicals linked to oxidative stress and cellular damage. Research has explored pomegranate’s possible effects on cardiovascular and metabolic health. Consumers should choose 100% pomegranate juice without added sugar when possible. Portion control also matters because fruit juice can contain substantial natural sugar. 5. Hot Cocoa Cocoa provides flavanols, a group of plant compounds that researchers have studied for potential cardiovascular benefits. “Cocoa contains a large amount of flavanols. So, dark chocolate can be part of an antioxidant-rich diet,” Todd said. Unsweetened cocoa powder or dark cocoa products generally provide a better option than heavily sweetened mixes. Consumers can control the added sugar when preparing hot cocoa at home. Experts still recommend getting antioxidants from a varied diet rather than relying on one drink. Citrus fruits, carrots, spinach, kale, watercress and parsley also provide beneficial compounds. Buckwheat, amaranth, millet and quinoa can further expand antioxidant intake. A colourful diet containing vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds offers a wider range of plant compounds.
Samsung Is Giving Older Home Appliances Powerful New AI
Samsung Electronics has announced a major AI-focused software update for selected refrigerators and laundry appliances, offering new features without requiring customers to replace their existing machines. Starting in September 2026, Samsung will roll out Tizen OS 10.0 to eligible appliances in phases. The update will bring several services and functions from newer 2026 models to selected products already in consumers’ homes. “Home appliances are products that consumers rely on for many years. We believe supporting them over time requires not only reliable hardware, but also software that continues to evolve,” said Jeong Seung Moon, Executive Vice President and Head of the R&D Team of the Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics. “Through this latest regular software update, we aim to help our appliances remain useful and up to date throughout the ownership journey, enhancing the long-term value consumers receive from products they already own.” The move reflects Samsung’s effort to increase the useful life of connected home appliances through regular software improvements. Refrigerators gain Google Gemini-powered AI Vision Samsung will expand the update first introduced for selected Bespoke AI Refrigerator Family Hub models in the United States in May. Eligible refrigerators include camera-equipped 21.5-inch and 32-inch Family Hub models released between 2021 and 2025. Samsung will also update selected 9-inch Family Hub models launched in 2025. These refrigerators will receive an updated version of AI Vision built with Google Gemini. The technology can identify and manage a wider range of fresh and packaged foods. Read More: Samsung Expands Spotify Premium Offer Across Pakistan Samsung says the system will also recognise more branded and region-specific products. This could help households monitor stored food and reduce the chances of items being forgotten or wasted. Now Brief will provide personalised information through the refrigerator screen. Another feature, What’s for Today?, will offer support with daily meal decisions. Google Gemini availability, accuracy and functions may vary by country, language, device model and software version. Users must also be at least 18 years old. What the update means for Pakistani consumers Samsung will extend its latest software experience to selected Bespoke AI Laundry Combo, Washer and Dryer models from 2024 and 2025. The update includes an improved version of Bixby with more natural voice recognition. A user can ask, “When will my laundry be finished?” Bixby may respond, “Your laundry is set to finish in two hours and 25 minutes.” Models with 7-inch Smart Screens will also receive a redesigned interface. A new Easy Mode will simplify controls and present important information in a more accessible layout. Samsung Pakistan currently promotes Family Hub refrigerators, Bespoke AI Laundry products, SmartThings connectivity and AI-powered home appliances through its local website. However, Samsung has not confirmed that every eligible feature will arrive simultaneously in Pakistan. Read More: Apple and Samsung Want You to Stop Owning Your Phone Local customers should check their exact model number through Samsung Pakistan’s support portal. Compatible appliances will display an alert when the update becomes available. Some functions require Wi-Fi and a Samsung, Google or Microsoft account. Bixby supports selected English accents but does not currently list Urdu among its recognised languages. Samsung said rollout timing, supported features and availability will differ by market, model year and product. This means Pakistani owners may receive the update later than customers in some other regions.
UK Universities Slash Tuition Fees to Attract Foreign Students
Several UK universities have started cutting postgraduate tuition fees as falling international enrollment deepens financial pressure across the higher education sector. At least 22 universities offer automatic discounts to postgraduate taught students, according to S Squared Insights. The consultancy reviewed 90 institutions. Students do not need to submit separate applications or compete for these reductions. Universities deduct the discount directly from tuition fees for eligible applicants. Read More: China Is Killing Thousands of University Degrees. Here’s Why The University of Aberdeen offers the largest recorded reduction at £8,000, or about $10,822. Its website confirms that eligible self-funded international master’s students receive the waiver automatically. The University of Kent offers a £5,000 reduction for master’s students from 14 countries and territories. These include China, South Korea and Vietnam. The University of Nottingham, a member of the research-intensive Russell Group, offers a £3,000 reduction. Julian Westwood, director of S Squared Insights, said universities had “shifted from smaller scholarship schemes to broad, overly simple cohort discounts.” He warned that falling student numbers and lower revenue per student could push some institutional financial plans beyond their stress-testing limits. Experts warn of university pricing war Zeenat Fayaz, founder of education consultancy The Brand Education, called the growing competition a “pricing war.” She warned that this approach could force universities to compete on price instead of educational quality. Some higher-tariff institutions have also lowered grade requirements to recruit more students. Fayaz described the trend as “a race to the bottom.” International students remain a vital source of revenue because they pay substantially higher fees than domestic students. Average international master’s fees range from £15,000 to £45,000 annually, according to ApplyBoard. Read More: Students Watched Online: UK Universities Accused of Spying on Students’ Social Media The UK hosted about 685,000 international students during the 2024-25 academic year. However, tighter immigration rules have weakened recruitment from overseas markets. Home Office figures show 381,500 sponsored study visa applications in the year ending July 2026. That represented an 11% fall from the previous 12-month period. Applications from student dependants dropped 6% to 19,200. They also stood 87% below the level recorded in December 2023. The decline followed rules introduced in January 2024 that stopped most international students from bringing family members to the UK. Financial crisis threatens courses and jobs The Office for Students estimated postgraduate tuition revenue at around £5 billion during 2024-25. That marked a decline of £500 million from the previous academic year. In May, the House of Commons Education Committee said the higher education sector faced “unprecedented” financial pressure. The crisis has already led to staff redundancies, course and department closures, recruitment freezes and asset sales. The committee found that 124 institutions, representing about 45% of the sector, could report deficits in 2025-26 without mitigating action. Earlier forecasts had placed 96 providers in deficit. MPs also criticised the absence of a clear government response for institutions approaching financial collapse. “Currently, there is no clearly understood protocol for how the Government might respond to a situation of a provider at risk of imminent insolvency, which is a very serious problem,” the committee said. Universities now face a difficult balance. Fee discounts may attract international students, but widespread reductions could further weaken revenue at institutions already struggling to remain financially stable.
New Refinery Policy Could Save Pakistan $1 Billion Every Year
The federal government will impose financial penalties on oil refineries that miss an October 1, 2026 deadline for signing Upgradation Agreements. The Federal Cabinet approved the move while ratifying amendments proposed by the Cabinet Committee on Energy on July 28. The changes affect the Pakistan Oil Refining Policy for Upgradation of Existing Brownfield Refineries, 2023. Read More: Pakistan Plans Major Oil Storage Reform to Reduce Supply Risks The amended policy aims to increase domestic production of Euro-V petrol and diesel. It also seeks to reduce furnace oil and other lower-value products. The Petroleum Division told the Cabinet that refinery upgrades could save Pakistan about $1 billion in foreign exchange annually. Officials also expect the policy to attract foreign investment, including potential investment from Saudi Arabia. Cleaner domestic fuels could lower Pakistan’s reliance on imported petrol and diesel. They could also improve engine performance and reduce harmful emissions. Refineries face reduced incentives and licence risk Refineries must sign agreements with the Petroleum Division within 45 days instead of the earlier 60-day period. They will no longer sign these agreements with the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority. The Petroleum Division will also take over policy implementation and monitoring from OGRA. Incremental incentives will enter a Refinery Upgradation Account managed by the division rather than OGRA-controlled escrow accounts. Independent third-party consultants will certify progress. Refineries that default or fall behind their physical targets cannot claim incentives until they complete corrective measures. The Cabinet reduced the project completion timeline to five years. Refineries will receive a one-year cure period, but they will lose one percent of their incentive. The government may grant another one-year extension if a refinery provides adequate justification. However, the competent authority may revoke licences if upgraded projects remain incomplete after the maximum five-year period and cure year. Projects that begin operations within three years may earn an additional incentive. The reward will equal 0.5 percent of the capped limit for every year saved. A refinery missing the October 1 signing deadline must deposit deemed duty above five percent on high-speed diesel into the upgrade account. The payment period will start from the agreement’s signing date, while transfers must finish by June 30, 2027. For timely signatories, deemed duty on HSD will fall to 2.5 percent. The rate will decline to zero by November 15, 2026. The Cabinet also barred international arbitration without its approval. Officials will add missing definitions to prevent ambiguity in the amended policy. Five refineries signal readiness for $6 billion upgrades Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik met management teams from Pakistan’s five refineries on August 26. The companies included PARCO, PRL, NRL, Cnergyico and Attock Refinery Limited. The meeting reviewed policy implementation, operational and financial performance, and measures to strengthen Pakistan’s energy security. All five refineries reaffirmed their readiness to sign the upgrade agreements. The Petroleum Division said the deals could unlock about $6 billion in refinery investment. Read More: Pakistan’s Five Refineries Ready for $6 Billion Upgrade Push “All the refineries are ready to sign modernisation agreements, involving a huge investment of $6 billion to kick-start local production of Euro 5-compliant fuel besides lowering the import bill of petrol and diesel,” Malik said. However, an industry executive said the revised policy still awaits formal notification. “Amendments in Pakistan Oil Refining Policy for Upgradation of Existing Brownfield Refineries, 2023 has not yet been notified,” the executive said. The executive added that refineries must sign with the Petroleum Division within 45 days after the government notifies the revised policy.
