Following a major scandal involving 12 teachers absconding with government-funded PhD scholarship money, Punjab University terminated the faculty members and initiated legal measures, including plans to block their passports, in cooperation with federal authorities. This action aims to uphold ethical standards and recover misappropriated public funds.

A preliminary inquiry into Punjab University’s Institute of Education and Research has revealed significant financial irregularities, fake recruitments, and irregular lease practices. The investigation highlights mismanagement, bypassing of standard procedures, and misappropriation of funds, triggering concerns over governance and accountability within the institution.

An investigation into Punjab University’s Institute of Education and Research Department revealed financial irregularities including irregular leasing of commercial shops at significantly reduced rates, fake recruitment processes, and misappropriation of treasury funds. The scandal has prompted further investigation by the Anti-Corruption Department and raises concerns over ethical governance and mismanagement of public resources.

On March 6, 2025, academic staff at Punjab University continued a third day of boycott in protest over the removal of a tax rebate that had previously bolstered their incomes. The unresolved demands led to a protest rally that escalated when police reportedly threatened and pushed teachers during road clearance, prompting further backlash and a call for a 'black day' by the Academic Staff Association.

Punjab University issued a tender notice on February 19, 2025 for the procurement of a CCTV surveillance system along with networking items and elevators. While the tender outlines a transparent e-procurement process via EPADS, the inclusion of surveillance technology raises concerns about potential misuse for monitoring student and faculty activities, which could have a chilling effect on free expression and dissent.

A violent clash erupted at Punjab University between security guards and various student unions, resulting in injuries to ten guards. The university's Vice Chancellor strongly condemned the attack, ordered strict disciplinary action against involved students, and ensured prompt treatment for the injured staff.

On October 23, 2024, Punjab University security guards attacked participants of a student rights march demanding reforms over fee hikes, scholarship issues, and other grievances. The incident, which involved allegations of torture and threats, resulted in 30 student injuries and injuries to several guards, prompting an investigation by police and university authorities.

On September 24, 2024, Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali announced a new policy emphasizing justice, merit, and a consultative process in running the university. The policy includes plans for upcoming Syndicate elections and clear measures against favoritism, reinforcing democratic and transparent governance.

On June 10, 2024, Sadia Baloch, a third-year law student and member of the Baloch Student Council at Punjab University, led a protest rally against enforced disappearances and ethnic targeting. Subsequently, on August 12, 2024, she received a suspension letter from the university alleging misuse of its platform to incite dissent—a move she and her supporters claim is part of a systematic effort to intimidate and silence politically active, marginalized Baloch students. The incident has spurred legal action and raised concerns about the suppression of constitutional rights within the academic institution.

Punjab University organized a two-day hybrid international conference on democracy, governance, and sustainability, featuring discussions on democratic norms, the role of technology, and sustainable development. The event brought together scholars, researchers, and practitioners to debate and promote progressive governance and democratic practices.