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Education is getting expensive
I write to express my deep concern about escalating costs of education in Pakistan. The increasing financial burden on students and their families is becoming a significant barrier to accessing quality education. Education is cornerstone of progress and development, yet the rising fees and associated expenses are creating a daunting challenge for many aspiring learners. This situation not only limits educational opportunities but also contributes to a growing divide in access to knowledge.It is imperative that we address this issue collectively. Government intervention and policy measures are crucial to ensure that education remains accessible to all segments of society. Scholarships, grants and transparent financial aid systems can alleviate financial strain on students and promote a more inclusive educational landscape. Furthermore, collaboration between educational institutions and industry could foster initiatives to reduce overall educational costs. Exploring innovative funding models and leveraging technology for cost-effective learning resources are avenues worth exploring.
RAZA KHAN AFRIDI
Karachi
Forced marriages
Among our deep-rooted traditions and customs, there exists a practice that continues to distress many within our culture — Forced marriages. Despite advancements in societal norms and global awareness, coercion into marriage remains a saddening reality for many individuals within our society. Forced marriages, a cultural relic often disguised under the veil of tradition, manifest as a grave violation of human rights. It surpasses boundaries of gender, age and consent leaving individuals vulnerable to emotional trauma, physical abuse and denial of their basic freedoms.
This practice is intricately linked to societal pressures, familial expectations and perpetuation of cultural norms. Often, families’ resort to forced marriages due to concerns about honour, social status or economic stability. The victims, facing immense pressure from their families and communities, encounter emotional blackmail, threats or even physical violence if they resist. They experience profound psychological distress and shattered dreams.
Therefore, our judiciary must implement and enforce laws that criminalise coercion into marriage, while also establishing support systems and safe spaces for those at risk. Additionally, it is also important to educate our youth, families and community leaders about importance of respecting individual autonomy in relationships and breaking chains of silence and fear that perpetuate forced marriages.
RUBAB ALI
Pir Jo Goth, Sindh
Safety in tech-driven world
Using phones and computers to pay for things online has become common and easy. But, there’s a problem: more and more people are trying to trick us and steal our money through digital payment frauds. This means they might pretend to be someone they’re not to get our important information, like passwords or credit card details. It’s a bit like someone trying to sneak into your online wallet! These frauds can happen in different ways, like fake emails, stealing our identity, or even making fake websites and apps. So, it’s important for all of us to be careful when we use digital payments. We should use trusted apps, turn on extra security if we can, and always check our accounts to make sure no one is taking money without our permission. Staying safe online is like wearing a digital seatbelt – it helps us enjoy the ride without worrying too much about bumps in the road!
FAHAD ALI PATHAN
Sukkur, Sindh
Joblessness
Unemployment is a serious issue that can affect our economy, which induces many disadvantages. The youth become disappointed regardless of jobs in Pakistan. It was recently reported that unemployment rate in Pakistan was 6.42 percent, a slight increase from 6.34 percent in previous year. Majority of our people are working in jobs that are way lower than their levels, as joblessness is becoming a serious issue these days. I’m seeing a lot of disappointment in people recently. I hope government helps people to fight this wave of unemployment.
GULAFROZ BALOCH
Turbat, Balochistan
Limit junk food
Consuming junk food is detrimental to our health, worse than tobacco and hypertension, as per medical reports. Junk food, including fizzy drinks, extra oily foods and burgers can lead to fatal diseases such as diabetes, obesity and digestive disorders. According to World Health Organisation, junk food causes 11 million deaths annually. It is crucial to limit intake of junk food to prevent health issues.
AMINA AMJID
Via mail
