EDUCATION acts as a major catalyst for empowerment, sustained economic growth and overcoming inequality and reducing conflict. We’ve wasted enough time. So, it’s high time to look at the big picture to steer the country out of the economic crisis. There cannot be two opinions that long-term goals can only be reached through revolutionizing the country’s education system; there is no other way out. Sadly, no government has ever visualized the big picture. As a result, the education system has always borne the brunt of sheer neglect, owing to a lack of political will over several decades.
“Pakistan has missed economic opportunities that have been exploited by many developing countries by increasing educational levels for the bulk of its labour force and, thus, enhancing their household incomes and reducing poverty. The future agenda for productive employment generation and education are closely interlinked,” says Dr. Ishrat Husain, Pakistan’s leading economist and former Governor, State Bank of Pakistan and former Advisor to the PM. “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” —Nelson Mandela. There’s no doubt about it: Education is a powerful tool for change. No matter what you’re fighting for, leading with a sharp mind can create more positive change than running toward challenges with a sharp sword.
While imagining the big picture, all the political parties in their manifestos should have declared an education emergency to get the country out of the quagmire of poverty, ignorance and socio-economic deprivation. By the year 2047, when Pakistan will be holding its centenary celebrations, there will be almost 68 percent of the total population under the age of 20 years and a revolution in the educational system is the only answer to help them meet the formidable challenges of tomorrow.
From primary to university levels, a solid educational foundation is essential for the country’s development and progress in the modern world. The development and steady progress of today’s world largely hinge on technology and innovation and a well-educated workforce is the norm. If Pakistan aims to pursue social and economic development, it must prioritize public education as a top national concern.
There is a dire need for an education emergency in Pakistan, not just for the education of over 28 million out-of-school children but also for establishing institutions that can solve the unemployment problem and turn the youth bulge into an asset in place of liability. It is the responsibility of political governance, media, industry leaders and all relevant authorities to look at the bigger picture and collaborate for a better tomorrow.
On the other hand, the scope of the big picture has changed drastically with the passage of time. Just a few years ago, nobody would have imagined the onset of a technology-advanced world where smart phones, driverless cars, ChatGPT and other technological wonders would rule the roost. In marked contrast, Pakistan has historically relied on traditional technology to drive its economy. However, the country needs innovation and technology to drive economic growth faster and become globally competitive. The Education Ministry, in collaboration with the IT Ministry, should formulate a long-term policy to introduce innovation and technology in our education system to increase global competitiveness in the coming years.
Collaboration between the two ministries is essential as technological innovations significantly impact educational systems at all levels. Online courses, teaching aids, deployment of educational software, social networking tools and other emerging technologies are replacing the traditional classroom environment. Therefore, understanding the positive impact of technological innovations on students, teachers and the overall schooling system is vital to face the challenges of tomorrow. Educationists must develop a plan with a proper timeline on how technological innovations could be used effectively to improve desired outcomes.
However, the crux of the problem is that Pakistan’s political leadership lacks strategic planning and foresight, as reflected in its uninspiring, mediocre performance. Due to a lack of strategic thinking and foresight, not only has Pakistan’s economy suffered, but its collapsing political, educational and social institutions are threatening the country’s very survival. Our leaders need to understand that educational technology has helped create new and updated educational material and curricula that have improved the speed of the teaching and learning process. There’s a need to develop appropriate plans to employ technological innovations in the educational process, considering the consequences that hinder us and attempting to overcome the challenges facing us.
In 2024, though the economy of Pakistan is replete with challenges, it provides ample opportunities, too. By addressing economic hurdles through comprehensive reforms, capitalizing on growth opportunities and meeting the expectations of its citizens, Pakistan can embark on a path towards sustainable development, enhanced prosperity and a brighter economic future. With the right strategies and concerted efforts in place, the nation can overcome challenges, seize opportunities and realize its true potential on the global economic stage. So, now is the time for leaders to understand that education is an essential tool for the development of any society. As Nelson Mandela states, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” Let’s build a Naya Pakistan with education.
—The writer is Consultant Content and Media at Nutshell Communications. He regularly contributes to the national press.
views expressed are writer’s own.
