THE journey from education to a quality education’ is yet to start and the Punjab Government is determined to achieve it, said Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif on the eve of the distribution of Honhaar Scholarships among the brilliant students of North and South and Central Punjab. The facility of education is being provided by the government but the stuff produced by the schools, colleges and universities hardly meets quality-wise the international standard.
Pakistan’s educational institutions must produce scholars, scientists, jurists, engineers, medical professionals, and experts capable of competing internationally. However, Pakistan lacks expertise on countries like France, Germany, Nepal, and others. Diplomats must be well-versed in the history, economy, culture, and politics of the countries they are posted to. Research is often limited to major powers, and barriers such as language, outdated techniques, and the commercialization of education hinder the pursuit of quality. Overcoming these challenges is essential to ensure that Pakistan’s education system nurtures global experts who can contribute effectively on the international stage.
Pakistan can elevate itself at the international level with the help of its human resource while the best human resources can be achieved if the government ensures quality education in the institutions. The Honhaar Scholarship scheme initiated by the Minister, Higher Education, under the auspices of the Chief Minister brought the whole of the Punjab academics to the magnificent hall of the Punjab University Lahore. From the students to the highest officials and cabinet members listened to the Chief Minister. Education and health are the departments directly dealing with the masses.
The electioneering campaign prioritized it massively in every election, unfortunately, these are the most neglected domains and governments could not bring some gigantic changes. Knowledge economy is a term pervasive throughout the world and the youth in Pakistan are earning much through education and skills but the question seeking response either knowledge means earning money only.
The CM highlighted several standards for educated youth, including decency, civility, righteousness, respect for others and responsible citizenship. She emphasized the importance of responsible citizenship, urging the youth to be nonviolent and respect the law, so that this decency can challenge the negative perceptions held by Western societies. Her eloquence was greatly appreciated, especially when she promised to award scholarships, laptops and funding for foreign education, irrespective of political affiliations. “You all are my sons and daughters, and I plan things for you as a mother,” she stated.
Dr. Farrukh Naveed, Secretary of Higher Education, outlined the provincial government’s efforts to promote meritocracy and facilities. The CM talked about educational reforms, questioning whether past governments had taken such creative steps to support the youth. While the Honhaar scholarships and other initiatives will benefit the youth, the government’s greatest achievement will be ensuring quality education. The CM also addressed brain drain, stressing the need to harness youth creativity within Pakistan. Educational institutions must prepare the youth to serve the nation and the government will launch projects to retain skilled talent. The young audience left inspired by Maryam Nawaz’s encouraging speech.
—The writer is Principal, Govt Islamia Graduate College, Lahore, a historian and author of the book “Punjab: An Anatomy of Muslim-Sikh Politics”.
