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Role of schooling in extremism
Learning plays an important role in the mental growth of human beings. Learning is not confined to schooling rather it can be online, in home and through social media .It is medium which helps individuals to grow mentally with the passage of time .It inculcates the essentials of tolerance, respect and co-existence. However, in Pakistan both parents and teachers relay only on schooling. Schooling, if seen decide the future of nation however, the education sector in Pakistan has failed to achieve desired objectives.
Some of the revenue driven measures have erected the obstacles in the way of achieving the desired objectives such as, Shadowing of education by economics has became an objective of both teacher and parents. Parents send their children to school to make them able to get job in future where as schools only focus on exam centric syllabus. Therefore, despite having around 62.3 pc of literacy rate, Pakistan has failed to bring any changes in population.
Additionally, the separate institutes of religion and science also gave birth to two different school of thoughts. The syllabus presented there is biased; they consider education presented to them as final; they do not show respect to other people views; they view each others as aliens. Therefore, there is a need to integrate both the institution or hold monthly debates between them. Moreover, it is also indispensable to mention the invaluable role of teachers. Teachers do not focus on character development of students. Teacher also present biased analysis .This led to the death of creativity therefore, they only take extreme decisions.
SHAH ZAIB ZARKOON
Islamabad
Road accidents & public attitude
The increasing frequency of road accidents in Pakistan is alarming and there are several factors contributing to this issue. Poor road conditions, driver negligence, speeding and overloading—whether of goods or passengers—are some of the primary causes. In today’s fast-paced world, everyone seems to be in a hurry, forgetting that arriving late is always better than not arriving at all. The tragic accident involving Dr. Ramesh Kumar Vankwani on September 2 serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life.
What’s even more troubling is how people respond to such accidents. Instead of offering immediate help, many choose to record the scene on their phones, making TikTok videos or taking pictures, rather than addressing the dire need for assistance. This growing trend reflects a disturbing shift in public attitude — people are more interested in capturing moments for social media than extending a helping hand.
This apathy is deeply concerning. The indifference shown by bystanders in the face of tragedy reveals a society that prioritizes personal gain over compassion. Instead of coming forward to help, many justify their inaction by saying it was “fate.” However, we must recognize the urgent need for change.
Preventing further accidents requires collective action. We must raise awareness, educate the public and encourage a sense of responsibility toward one another. Let’s pledge to act when needed—offering assistance instead of standing by as spectators. By doing so, we can contribute positively not only to this world but also to our afterlife.
SIDRA NAWAZ
Muzaffargarh
Educational catastrophe
The MDCAT 2024 controversy has stirred growing unrest in Pakistan. The Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT), a pivotal exam for aspiring medical students, has been overshadowed by claims of mismanagement, misconduct and unfair practices. From inadequate arrangements for the large number of students to unethical behavior towards them—particularly female students—and even exam paper leaks, the situation has fueled widespread frustration among students and parents. Rather than addressing these serious concerns, the authorities have chosen to deflect blame onto the students and parents, accusing them of making false claims.
This raises a pressing question: where is Pakistan heading in terms of education? Time and again, we witness issues within the education sector, ranging from flaws in the curriculum to severe mismanagement at the national level. Medicine, engineering and IT sciences are some of the most esteemed fields in the country, producing hundreds of skilled professionals each year. However, if these mishaps persist without corrective action from the government and relevant authorities, Pakistan risks losing its ability to produce such professionals altogether. Already, we are witnessing a significant number of young people leaving the country in search of better educational and career prospects abroad and continued mismanagement will only accelerate this trend.
MIDHAT MEENAHIL
Rawalpindi
