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Urgent appeal for Gaza
I’m deeply troubled by the crisis in Gaza. The recent violence has made life extremely difficult for innocent people there. Families in Gaza are struggling to get food, medicine and basic things they need. Kids are suffering the most—they’re missing school and feeling scared.
We urgently need peace and aid. Talking instead of fighting is vital. Plus, getting help like food and medicine to Gaza fast is crucial. It’s time to stand together and support Gaza. Let’s push for peace talks and send the aid that families urgently need.
MAIMOONA IMRAN
Rawalpindi
Dark side of AI
I am writing to express my concerns about the trajectory of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential implications for the future. While the advancements in AI are impressive, some aspects raise apprehensions. One significant concern is the possible displacement of jobs as AI becomes more integrated into various sectors. The automation and implementation of AI-driven systems may lead to unemployment and economic instability, necessitating proactive measures to address these potential societal changes.
Ethical considerations surrounding AI development are another area of worry. The creation of autonomous systems capable of decision-making raises questions about accountability, transparency, and the unforeseen consequences that may arise. It is crucial to establish ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks to guide responsible AI development and usage.
Furthermore, the idea of AI surpassing human intelligence, commonly known as the “singularity,” is a subject of considerable debate and concern. Developing ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks is essential to prevent unintended consequences and to ensure AI aligns with our values and respects human well-being.
The potential weaponization of AI is also a troubling consideration. Autonomous weapons controlled by AI could pose significant threats to global security, necessitating international collaboration and agreements to establish clear boundaries for AI usage in military applications.
In light of these challenges, it is vital to engage in open and informed discussions about the future of AI. While embracing the benefits of this technology, we must remain vigilant in addressing associated risks. Ethical considerations, regulatory frameworks, and ongoing dialogue are essential to steer AI development responsibly.
ANAM ASHFAQUE
Sukkur
Children
Latif Festival
I had an opportunity to attend the first-ever Children Latif Festival in Hyderabad organised by Sindhi Language Authority on 9th & 10th December. The festival proved to be a good/positive gesture for promoting wisdom and teachings of world’s renowned Sufi poet and guide Shah Abdul Latif to the younger generation.
The active participation of children of diverse background and schools from across the province made the event more momentous. They read and sung marvellous poetry of Shah Abdul Latif, presented tableaus and delivered speeches reflecting intellect and teachings of Shah Abdul Latif for the world. The audience like me were amazed seeing such astounding love as well as passion for learning on the part of children.
It is, therefore, pertinent to mention that such programmes serve greatly in terms of preserving our rich socio-political and cultural history and learning for generations. Hence, festivals like Children Latif Festival need to be organised with wider publicity as the maxim goes we can keep only thing with us fore-ver is the only thing that we give. With giving and imparting what we have learnt to our children we can keep our history, culture and language intact forever.
ASIF JHATIAL
Tando Jam
Except democracy, what?
Abraham Lincoln defines democracy as, “Government of the people, by the people and for the people.” Democracy was introduced by the Greeks in 5th BC in the city of Athens. But many empires did not adopt this because no king wanted to leave power. When we talk about the time before democracy, there was a king system which was in favour of only one family and this system of hierarchy continues.
Royal families often enjoyed life without concern for their people, reminiscent of the Czar of Russia in the 1800s, who wielded immense power and wealth while 90% of the population lived in poverty. The significant shift, catalyzed by the resurgence of popular ideals and institutions, reshaped the global landscape after the dismantling of empires following the Second World War.
From an international relations perspective, democracy plays a vital role in fostering good relations with other democratic nations. It contributes to maintaining global peace, crucially important after the devastating world wars. Additionally, democracy aids in trade relationships, even between nations with a history of conflict, like Pakistan and India, that have engaged in trade despite facing several wars since 1947.
Democracy is often contrasted with oligarchic and royal systems, where power resides with a minority or a sole monarch. Democracy offers numerous advantages such as freedom and a free press, allowing the media to express factual information about the country without bias. While acknowledging the drawbacks of democracy, if this system is avoided, the question arises: what alternative system could be embraced—one that is adaptable and beneficial for all people?
SAOOD ALI KHAN
Bahawalpur
Box letter
Root causes of Pak water crisis
Pakistan’s water crisis is a pressing issue that needs attention. The country faces numerous challenges in managing its water resources. One of the main causes is the increasing demand for water due to a growing population and expanding agricultural needs. Climate change also plays a role, with changing weather patterns affecting rainfall and melting glaciers. Inefficient irrigation practices and outdated infrastructure contribute to water wastage. Pollution from industrial and agricultural activities further deteriorates water quality. To address this crisis, Pakistan needs to focus on sustainable water management, including conservation measures, modernizing irrigation systems and investing in infrastructure to ensure the availability of clean water for its people.
SHAZRA KAWAJIR
Sri Lanka
