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Changing gender roles
In 2024, Pakistan continues to witness significant changes in gender roles and perceptions. The evolving landscape reflects both challenges and opportunities. But what does this mean for individuals and society as a whole? Let’s break it down. Recent studies show that more Pakistanis are embracing the idea of gender equality. A survey conducted in early 2024 revealed that 65% of respondents support equal rights for men and women. This marks an improvement from years past when traditional roles defined expectations. The youth, particularly, are driving this change, questioning old norms and advocating for balance in workplaces and homes.
The wave of women’s empowerment is surging. More women are entering education and the workforce than ever before. The literacy rate for women has jumped to about 59%, thanks to various government and non-government initiatives. Empowered women in business contribute significantly to the economy. Women-led start-ups are on the rise, with an increase of 25% in 2023 alone. This showcases the shifting mindset towards female entrepreneurship. Despite progress, issues like gender-based violence cast a long shadow. Reports indicate that approximately 38% of women have faced some form of violence in their lives. Activists and organizations are working tirelessly to combat this. Laws are being updated, and awareness campaigns are striving to educate communities. This is crucial because a society that thrives on equality cannot ignore these harsh realities.
Education plays a pivotal role in reshaping gender perceptions. In 2024, more girls are attending school, with enrolment figures reaching about 48% in rural areas. Schools are not just about learning; they’re platforms for social change. Young girls have a chance to learn about their rights and responsibilities, fostering a culture of respect and equality. Education empowers them to break the cycle of poverty and dependence.
QAZI ABDUL MALIK
Pano Akil, Sukkur
Corruption’s toll on society
Every year, billions of dollars vanish due to corrupt practices in Pakistan. This causes a significant loss of public trust in institutions. The trust is vital because citizens rely on institutions for schools, hospitals and roads. However, shady deals and bribery are causing this trust to shrink. Reports suggest that corruption costs the country around 10% of its GDP annually, leading to a loss of faith in the government and tearing apart the fabric of society. Public servants are at a staggering loss.
Instead of being used to improve lives, these funds end up lining the pockets of those who are expected to serve the people, not exploit them for personal gain. The economic toll of corruption in Pakistan is staggering. Billions of resources that should go towards maintaining infrastructure or providing essential services are often misallocated. When funds are siphoned off every year due to corrupt practices, schools crumble, hospitals struggle to provide care and roads become hazardous. Corruption doesn’t just drain resources; it widens the economy. The drain of resources caused by corruption in Pakistan has severe consequences and unfortunately, the people pay the price.
QAZI ABDUL MALIK
Pano Akil, Sukkur
Demand for district
Gujar Khan, a city with a population of approximately 200,000, is currently a tehsil within the district of Rawalpindi. As one of the largest and oldest tehsils in Punjab, Gujar Khan faces significant challenges due to its distance from the district headquarters in Rawalpindi. Residents frequently have to travel long distances for routine matters and petty litigation.
The people of Gujar Khan have long advocated for their tehsil to be upgraded to district status. With 36 union councils, substantial revenue generation, abundant resources, geographical significance and burgeoning economical development, Gujar Khan has the administrative capacity to manage district-level responsibilities effectively.
Furthermore, the inclusion of Sohawa tehsil, currently part of Jhelum district, would further strengthen the case for a new Gujar Khan district. Sohawa is situated at a considerable distance from Jhelum’s district headquarters, making its integration into a newly formed Gujar Khan district a practical solution.
This proposal is not merely a pipe dream but a legitimate demand based on the needs of the community.
MUDASSAR FARID
Islamabad
