Zahid Maqsood Sheikh
WHY would a university that admits the brightest students allow itself to become a breeding ground for drug abuse and impropriety? This is the core issue facing one of Pakistan’s top private universities. While it boasts academic achievements and expanding facilities, the ongoing drug use, especially in hostels and during late-night assemblies, remains unresolved. What message does this send to students who are meant to lead Pakistan’s future?
Universities are crucial in shaping the next generation of leaders, but this vision must be supported by strong discipline. International universities like Harvard and Oxford set high standards for academic performance and personal responsibility. Unfortunately, it seems that this university has lost sight of discipline, undermining the values that should guide educational institutions.
Some universities have faced similar challenges but have turned things around with clear plans. They have addressed drug abuse and impropriety, transforming themselves into role models. With the right leadership and commitment, positive change is not only possible but inevitable.
Despite high tuition fees, conditions at this university worsen each year. Parents have raised concerns about the drug problem, but the institution focuses on financial growth rather than creating a safe, disciplined environment for students. Leading universities worldwide prioritize student well-being alongside academic excellence, ensuring that students are both intellectually and morally responsible.
Internal communications reveal the extent of the problem. Emails highlight inappropriate behavior and unprofessional conduct, yet little action has been taken. Academic progress is visible, but the decline in student behavior remains unaddressed. If this university adopted the practices of leading institutions, it could create a more balanced, productive environment.
One solution could be a student tracking system, allowing counselors to raise red flags when students show signs of trouble. This proactive approach would help faculty monitor academic and behavioral trends, enabling early intervention. Regular drug tests could also signal the university’s commitment to a disciplined, safe environment.
Addressing these issues is not impossible. Concrete steps, such as establishing a proper enforcement department, introducing security measures, including sniffing dogs and enforcing strict penalties, would discourage harmful behaviors. Leading universities demonstrate that maintaining high standards of student conduct is both necessary and achievable. The question is whether this university has the will to make these changes. The current 24-hour open policy, with unrestricted access for non-hostel students, creates an environment prone to mischief. The lack of supervision worsens the situation and this must be reconsidered to prevent harm to students’ futures and the university’s reputation.
This university admits the best students, those meant to lead the nation forward but leaves them vulnerable to the dangers of a deteriorating campus life. The university must create an environment that nurtures growth, responsibility and leadership. International universities do so by promoting responsibility, offering support systems and enforcing strict policies to ensure a safe, nurturing campus.
The leadership must address these growing concerns. By implementing proven strategies from prestigious international institutions, the university can set a new example, focusing not only on academic achievements but also on the well-being and future of its students. The opportunity to make this change is in their hands. Swift, decisive action is required to ensure the next generation of leaders is not only academically strong but morally responsible, ready to lead Pakistan into a better future.
—The writer is a former technocrat, regularly writing for the betterment of institutions and forward-looking leadership.
