Ramshackled hostel and poor hygiene

By Aden Dahir

 The Federal Boys’ hostel at University of Karachi hosts around 60 foreign students of different nationalities, Somalian, Sudanese, Yemenis, Nepalese, and Kenyans are the notable foreign communities who presently reside at the campus hostel. This number is remarkable comparing to other universities in Pakistan which have less foreign nationals. Students here share facilities of two small  building that have 40 rooms, one kitchen and around 15 functioning bathrooms.

From the time of one's applying to live in the boys' hostel, till making one's clearance when finishing the degree, students pass through various stages. The facilities provided by the administration are decent, but lack of advocacy for foreigners about their needs sometimes makes the hostel life difficult.

What’s more, poor sanitation system, lack of basic necessary materials of life such as cooling system, washing machines, water heater sometimes make life unbearable. The hostel doesn't even have a fence which protects them from intruders. Besides the lack of these basic facilities the hostel building is ramshackled and it has never been renovated since it was built.

All these adversities can be easily overlooked because of the excellent cooperation of the all walks of University of Karachi, such as administration , lecturers, departmental workers and even cleaners show them moderate, frank and tireless help.

On the other hand whilst foreigners at the boys' hostel have different beliefs but there is mutual respect among them. Majority of hostel residents are Muslims and every individual is free and fearless to perform his daily religious rituals. The students themselves are collaborative, and the need for interaction is boosted by  the conditions of the hostel.

Despite the ramshackled hostel and poor hygiene facing every one who lives in the federal boys’ hostel, there is no other place better to go at the end of the day, to unwind and relax in the company of friends.