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Population explosion
The financial situation of the country demands radical changes in the structure of bureaucracy. Recall how a top businessman in the country commented that two-thirds of the bureaucracy has no real work to do. It’s about time to slash it given the massive debt Pakistan has to clear. The salaries and many other privileges the upper layer of the government, including the judiciary, enjoy are completely incompatible with the economic situation of the country. As a result, serious resentment exists against the privileged class and those living below the poverty line.
On one side are the security protocols and high living of the privileged class and on the other are empty stomachs of millions of men, women and children. Another important issue that no government dares to point out and find remedial measures on is the population explosion in the country. Pakistan being the fifth most populous country in the world must raise eyebrows instead of brushing it aside. Down the ladder, it’s shocking to know that 26 million children don’t attend school. It must be every government’s priority to ensure that kids attend schools to have a basic education.
The government must consider setting up vocational institutions at the district level. The students after getting the basic education should join the vocational institutions to learn various skills to be able to earn their living. Men skilled in practical education are most likely to find jobs abroad, including in the Gulf States and Saudi Arabia. Those trained to do technical work are not only respected but earn enough to live well. The bottom line however is that the living conditions of the poor must improve. And they can only improve when strict population control by whatever means is exercised.
The religious leaders could play a positive role as was done in Bangladesh to control haphazard population growth. Especially, the lower classes must be convinced to not compete in the propagation of large families. Most of the countries with less population are well-off and the majority of their populations are civilised and educated. When Sri Lanka and Bangladesh could manage to control the expansion in population and increase the literacy rate, why couldn’t we do it? Human development must be the main aim of the new coalition government.
QAZI JAMSHED SIDDIQUI
Lahore
RIP radio star, Ameen Sayani
For most of us, Ameen Sayani’s radio journey started with Binaca Geetmala for Radio Ceylon in 1952, which is certainly when his voice and his show became an instant rage. His golden voice on the airwaves had a charm and warmth that endeared him to people across generations. Through his work, he played an important role in revolutionising Indian broadcasting and nurtured a very special bond with his listeners.
He showcased songs featured in Hindi movies for more than 42 years, helping establish a place for film music in India’s popular culture. Condolences to his family, admirers and all radio lovers across the globe. May his soul rest in peace.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
Distraction while driving
Most of the accidents nowadays are caused by distractions while driving. One of the most engaging elements found in these type of distractions is the mobile phone.
Due to busy schedules and workloads, people prefer using mobile phones off and on while driving. Unfortunately, using mobile phones while driving is much common and habitual nowadays. It is considered hazardous because many accidents happened only due to the use of mobile phones on the road while being in cars or on motorcycles.
Use of mobile phones during driving causes loss of focus and consciousness from the road which ultimately costs life. Distracted drivers not only become a risk for themselves but also for other people who might be driving responsibly but because of these distracted drivers they also suffer. It is not the problem of any specific state or region, it is the problem of the whole world. Police and other authorities are not enough to simply minimize these kinds of risks without the help of people or the public.
MAHNAZ AMAN
Karachi
SPSC blunder
The Sindh Public Service Commission (SPSC) is a well-known institution in Sindh that conducts various commission exams for students based on merit. However, this institution has consistently faced allegations regarding its transparency and adherence to merit. Recently, the leakage of the Secondary School Teacher (SST) paper on social media has severely undermined its accountability. Consequently, many questions are being raised against this institution.
Moreover, our Sindh province is already grappling with unemployment and poverty due to corruption in institutions and we are also lagging behind due to the lack of quality education. Despite these challenges, some students from lower-middle-class families work hard to pass their competitive exams through SPSC. Sadly, they often fail to achieve their desired goals due to the lack of merit in this institution. Therefore, SPSC must take strict action against its corrupt officers.
However, it is noteworthy that SPSC is scheduled to conduct Head Master and Head Mistress exams on 27th February. In this regard, SPSC must ensure complete transparency, discipline and merit in this exam to restore trust among the stakeholders.
ABDUL AHAD GHUNYO
Ghotki
Box letter
Education reform
In Pakistan, education stands as a pressing concern, with the quality of learning lagging far behind enrolment rates. Critical thinking skills are notably absent among students, largely due to outdated curricula and prevalent rote learning practices. This systemic flaw stifles creativity and limits students’ potential for intellectual growth. Beyond the classroom, the ramifications of this educational deficiency are profound, permeating various aspects of society. From hampering economic development to exacerbating political instability, the shortcomings in education contribute to a myriad of socio-economic challenges facing the nation. Addressing these issues necessitates comprehensive education reform. It is imperative not only for raising academic standards but also for cultivating a generation equipped with the critical thinking abilities essential for navigating the complexities of the modern world. By delving into the root causes and far-reaching consequences of Pakistan’s education crisis, we seek to catalyze meaningful change and chart a course towards a brighter future for the nation.
ULFAT NAZEER AHMED
Karachi
