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Identity crises
Identity is a complex and multifaceted concept, and in a diverse country like Pakistan, it becomes even more intricate. Pakistan, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnicities, is home to a population that grapples with questions of identity on various levels. From regional identities to religious affiliations, individuals often find themselves navigating the complexities of their own sense of self. One of the key factors influencing identity in Pakistan is the country’s diverse ethnic makeup. With multiple ethnic groups such as Punjabis, Sindhis, Balochis, Pashtuns, and Muhajirs, each with their own distinct languages, traditions, and customs, individuals often find themselves balancing their ethnic heritage with their national identity. This can sometimes lead to a sense of conflict or confusion, as people try to reconcile their regional roots with their sense of belonging to the larger Pakistani identity.
Religion also plays a significant role in shaping identity in Pakistan. As an Islamic republic, Islam is deeply embedded in the fabric of society. However, individuals may have different interpretations and levels of religious adherence, leading to varying degrees of religious identity. This can create a sense of tension or uncertainty, as individuals navigate their personal beliefs within the broader religious and societal context.
Moreover, Pakistan’s historical and geopolitical context has also influenced identity formation. The country’s creation as a separate homeland for Muslims during the partition of India in 1947 has had a lasting impact on the national identity of Pakistanis. The struggle for independence and the subsequent challenges faced by the nation have shaped the collective identity of its people.
SAMI GHULAMANI
Via email
Compromising
excellence!
Since its inception, Sukkur IBA University has stood as a beacon of merit, quality and excellence in education, particularly for the underprivileged students across Sindh. However, recent developments have cast a shadow over its commitment to upholding these values. The departure of founding Vice Chancellor, Nisar Ahmed Siddique, seems to have signalled a departure from the university’s dedication to excellence, particularly evident in the administration’s handling of the Sindh Talent Hunt Program (STHP).
The STHP has long been hailed as a lifeline for talented yet financially disadvantaged students, providing them with the opportunity to pursue undergraduate degrees on fully funded scholarships. This program, covering not only tuition but also monthly stipends, hostel accommodation and essential academic material, has been instrumental in nurturing the potential of countless deserving individuals. However, under the tenure of the new VC, the program’s integrity has been compromised.
It is deeply disheartening to learn that deserving students enrolled in the STHP are being denied their rightful entitlements. The absence of monthly stipends and hostel accommodation, which were once essential components of the program, has plunged these students into a myriad of challenges. Many find themselves struggling to afford private accommodation that are prohibitively expensive and place an undue financial burden on already marginalized individuals. The Sindh government’s generous allocation of Rs. 13 billion towards the STHP underscores the importance and value placed on providing equal educational opportunities for all. However, the failure of the university administration to ensure the proper distribution of these funds reflects a disregard for the welfare and future prospects of deserving students.
PEHLAJ KUMAR
Khairpur Mirs, Sindh
Women’s contribution
About half of the world population or a large part of the world’s population is woman. No nation can achieve success without participation of women in any society. They perform duties of mother, a wife and a homemaker. It is a common belief that women should do these traditional duties. It is very encouraging to observe that women are no longer confined in their homes. Women are getting educated. They are becoming conscious about their rights and privileges, so they are coming out of home and working. Force which was unthinkable to family income and at the same time they are exercising an inflatable fence in family affairs. They are joining almost all the professions including armed forces and trying wholeheartedly to serve the nation.
MEENAL RASHEED
Via email
Our political system
Pakistan has had a complicated political history since 1947. Sometimes the military took control instead of elected leaders. This happened in 1958, 1969,1977 and 1999. Things are tough right now because country is facing severe economic crises just because politicians aren’t doing a good job. The way they are running the country isn’t strong, well planned and it’s making life harder for everyone, especially the poor. The sad part is that these problems directly impact the lives of ordinary people.
The poor, who are already facing challenges, are hit the hardest. It’s like making their struggles even tougher. Pakistan needs sincere and smart leaders who know how to make the country better. When politicians have good intentions and wise minds they can make smart plans to help the country grow and solve problems. Smart leaders can make good choices that make life better for everyone. So, if our leaders have good judgement it can lead to a happier and more successful Pakistan for all of us. Let’s hope that politics gets better. It would be great if the way leaders run the country improves and they work together for well-being of the people.
MAZHAR ALI
Islamabad
