THE development of nations involves overcoming numerous obstacles that arise along the way. Development necessitates an ongoing effort to overcome obstacles. To achieve development, a nation must undergo a comprehensive change in its attitude and behaviour. Through the analysis of developmental trends across the globe, we realize that the progress of nations is a complex process that necessitates constant endeavours to achieve excellence in every sector. The modern world reveals a major gap in progress between developed and developing countries, as some nations quickly become developed.
As an illustration, let’s consider the case of Singapore. Despite poverty and underdevelopment, Singapore struggled as a small town. Yet, it has emerged as the most developed nation in the world today. Lee Kuan Yew’s mindset was the driving force behind Singapore’s development. Following the removal of Ferdinand Marcos, he declared in his speech, “We determine what is correct, regardless of public opinion.”
Lee Kuan Yew worked on improving people’s lives by making the system more efficient. The leader’s commitment to transforming every aspect of life in Singapore is evident in the ban against littering and spitting. In addition, Singapore enforced a complete prohibition on the import of chewing gum because it caused delays in train operations. Lee Kuan Yew showed immense dedication and commitment to transforming the nation. Lee Kuan Yew’s development agenda encompassed all sectors of the country’s growth and progress.
The education system was completely changed and is now considered the finest in the world. The elite-led policy attracted top professionals worldwide to Singapore, transforming the nation’s future. Moreover, Singapore’s government invested in housing and infrastructure to prioritize its people’s development. The focus of Singapore’s government was on export-led industrialization boosting investor confidence. Maintaining a reputation for honesty and efficiency was a requirement for government sector officers.
Economic liberalization in Singapore and the hard-working population’s support contributed to adopting these policies. The country’s leadership has increased equality for women by disregarding traditional norms of women working from home or being restricted by radical tendencies. Singapore’s transformation from a hot and disease-ridden colonial trading port to a thriving centre of development and wealth was driven by this mindset of progress. Similarly, the Age of Enlightenment contributed to Europe’s progress in history. Europe embraced inclusivity, reshaping its institutional structure for the benefit of its people. Europe’s adoption of the developmental mindset led to its success and attraction of immigrants worldwide.
Social, political and economic reforms propelled developed countries towards their desired goals. Developed countries established a solid groundwork for executing social and economic reforms through political reforms. The key aspect of political reforms in developed countries was embracing public welfare in policy making. The realization of this idea occurred through the transformation of social and economic sectors, aiming to address public concerns. As a result, these countries made progress in every aspect of life. In Pakistan’s development, the main challenge lies in the absence of a mindset that prioritizes development.
Pakistan’s journey towards development has been fraught with challenges. Despite years of ambitious plans, the country has not made substantial advancements in social, political and economic domains. To demonstrate a commitment to development, Pakistan must establish clear guidelines. To ensure equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of discrimination, we need to initially revamp the political landscape. The first step towards development is political inclusivity, which sets the country’s momentum towards progress. We should learn from states where political inclusivity has remained out of reach. The reality is that states with complex political landscapes discourage individuals from humble backgrounds from engaging in politics. Despite the leadership’s best efforts, these states struggle to succeed.
Furthermore, it’s time to formalize extensive reforms in all sectors. The primary focus of reformation should be on the education sector. The education sector needs intellectuals who are willing to serve the country by sharing their valuable experience. The education sector should be free from political meddling. This sector needs talented individuals and political interference will only exacerbate the problem. Without changes in the education sector, the country’s development goals will remain unattainable. Additionally, comprehensive reforms in bureaucracy are necessary to eliminate obstacles in public service delivery.
Without transparency and accountability, bureaucracy cannot effectively serve its people. Pakistan has the potential to transform the state by aligning bureaucracy with public needs. The role of public servants needs to be redefined in this context, with the condition that they must maintain an excellent reputation to serve the country. Moreover, the development agenda needs to focus on enhancing the human development index. Prosperity cannot be attained by any nation without improving the productivity and efficiency of its people.
Giving priority and respect to foreign and local investors is crucial, as we must attract their investments. Awarding a special status to all investors could potentially boost investment. Moreover, we must establish a highly supportive business climate in the country to aid small and medium-sized enterprises. If there’s no investment, the country will continue seeking loans to cover its expenses. The nations that prioritize the development of their people demonstrate a resolute will to achieve their desired goals.
Pakistan needs to exhibit determination to transform its sectors and realize its aspiration of becoming a developed nation. Sacrificing our short-term interests is necessary to achieve long-term national interests. The country needs to take genuine steps that truly reflect the implementation of reforms to progress towards development. Without adopting this approach, the idea of Pakistan becoming a developed country will remain a distant aspiration.
—The writer is an educationist and a Commoner from 44th Common, based in Sargodha.
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