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Preserving health
The looming threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Pakistan poses a serious threat to public health. Misuse and overuse of common antibiotics such as amoxicillin and ciprofloxacin contribute significantly to this growing problem. Patients often rely on their own prescriptions, making matters worse. The effects are profound, threatening the effectiveness of important antibiotics such as azithromycin and Augmentin.
This abuse not only weakens the effectiveness of these medications but also exposes individuals to severe side effects. From gastrointestinal disturbance to allergic reactions, the indiscriminate use of antibiotics increases health risks. Primary interventions are to educate the public on the cautious and careful use of antibiotics, emphasize prescription adherence, and discourage self-medication. Concerted efforts are vitally important to preserve the potential of these life-saving medicines are essential, and will ensure a healthier future for the people of Pakistan.
The precaution for the public is to seek medical advice from a registered medical practitioner before starting antibiotics, to complete a prescribed course even if symptoms subside, and to avoid delays or prescriptions dissemination of health care providers, policymakers and the collective efforts of communities is essential to reduce antimicrobial resistance preserving the effectiveness of these important medicines for present and future generationsin Pakistan.
IMAD UD DIN KHAN
Lahore
KUBF 2024
Karachi University Book Fair-2024 is a must-visit for students seeking intellectual enrichment, literary exploration and a sense of community. It goes beyond being a mere marketplace for books; it is a celebration of knowledge, diversity and the joy of learning, This lively event, a convergence of literature and diverse perspectives, offers a unique opportunity for students to broaden their horizons and delve into the world of knowledge.
The sprawling campus transforms into a literary haven, with book stalls lining the pathways, beckoning students with a treasure trove of literary gems. From academic textbooks to fiction, poetry and non-fiction, the book fair caters to a multitude of interests, making it a haven for avid readers and curious minds alike.
One compelling reason to attend the Karachi University book fair is the array of discounted books. With publishers and sellers offering special prices, students can build their personal libraries without burning a hole in their pockets. This affordability factor makes the event not only intellectually enriching but also economically accessible for the student community.
Beyond the tangible allure of discounted books, the book fair fosters a sense of community among students. It serves as a meeting ground for individuals who share a common passion for literature, providing a platform for engaging discussions, book recommendations and the exchange of ideas. Navigating through the book fair becomes an interactive experience, allowing students to connect with like-minded peers and possibly discover new literary genres.
The diversity of genres and topics covered at the book fair ensures that there is something for everyone. Whether you are a science enthusiast, a literature lover, or someone interested in history and culture, the event caters to a broad spectrum of academic and leisurely pursuits. It encourages students to explore beyond their academic syllabus, promoting a holistic approach to learning.
UNZILA ANAS
Karachi
New dawn
Gilgit-Baltistan’s literacy rate is higher than the national literacy rate of Pakistan. District-wise speaking, Diamar district of GB has lowest literacy rate compared to rest of other districts, unfortunately. Among other factors, a blend of religious misinterpretations of gender role assigning and patriarchal societal norms is a rudimentary reason of it, especially when it comes to girl education.
Retrospectively, during 2018, a dozen girls’ schools were set ablaze and torched with explosives across the said district by miscreants. Such grotesque assail was a reflection of the misogynistic mindset to deprive girls of their fundamental human right to get education under the hideous guise of religion.
Optimistically, but, a new dawn of a new beginning is onset: GB government along with the collaboration with the Red Foundation Project has established 75 schools for girls across the Diamar district—from Derel to Tangir, Chillas and to other far-flung areas. This was a 3-years project that will begin its services from March, 15. All the required trainings of the teachers, staff and monitoring teams are completed duly.
About 2250 girls from across the district would be able to benefit from these schools. This development is heartening to see which will help alleviate not only the literacy rate of the the said district that lags behind other districts, but also, it will help create job opportunities for many unemployed people of Diamar. GB local government now must ensure that the unfortunate incidents of 2018 are not repeated by the enemies of light and knowledge.
ZAHID ALI ZOHRI
Gilgit-Baltistan
Box letter
Ramadan inflation
Ramadan is considered one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar for Muslims all over the world. As far as Pakistan is concerned, it has always been a tradition that whenever Ramadan comes, the inflation rate also increases. It is a painful truth that, despite being a Muslim state, there is no leniency in the prices of very basic and demanded vegetables and fruits such as flour, gram, oil, lemons, dates, etc. The skyrocketing prices have compelled poor people to break their fast with only water, with nothing to eat after breaking their fast. In light of the aforementioned, our government must take concrete steps, at least in the holy month of Ramadan, to control the skyrocketing prices of daily commodities and give some relief to the common people.
ABDUL AHAD GHUNYO
Ghotki, Sindh
