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Protest is fundamental right of citizens
One of the basic principles of freedom in democratic societies is the right for protest which allows people to express their issues, demand responsibilities and encourage the required social changes. This fundamental right that people’s opinions are heard especially when they want to protest injustices or laws they feel are harmful to their wealth.
Protests have recently increased in Pakistan showing the worth of this democratic right. The protests over rising inflation, unemployment and government policies lead to widespread public dissatisfaction. Citizens have taken to the streets to demand better governance, economic reforms and improved living conditions. The growing prices of necessities which have had a significant impact on the average person are an important reason of these protests. The protests call for politicians cause attention and highlight a fundamental dissatisfaction with the state of the economy.
Additionally, proof of the active participation of citizens in elections has come from political protests especially those that focused on the opposition’s position on elections and political representation. Whether it’s a protest against politicians or economic policies they highlight how important it is to assure that people can freely express opinions and fight for an equitable society.
RANA RIZWAN
Sukkur
Education system
Inherited from British colonial rule, Pakistan’s education system has failed to meet modern-day needs, as it was originally designed to produce clerks and functionaries, not critical thinkers or creative solution providers. An education system designed to create a class of individuals who are native in appearance but Western in outlook, continues to obstruct progress. In the first Education Conference of 1947, the founder of Pakistan Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in his address had a clear direction, asserting education as the key to improving the nation’s standing. Jinnah made it clear that education should not only focus on academics but also cover science and technology to build a future-ready nation. He emphasised the need for well-trained teachers, as they are fundamental to developing a quality education system. Unfortunately our educational system has been plagued by a variety of issues, including political interference, linguistic diversity, economic shortfalls and geographical barriers. Over the years, several educational policies have been drafted but these policies often fail when it comes to implementation.
The problems within our education system are glaring: outdated syllabi, rote learning and a lack of practical knowledge. Examinations are being cheated, papers are leaked out. Moreover, many teachers lack an understanding of student psychology, a crucial aspect of effective teaching. Without this, the learning process becomes mechanical rather than engaging. At a higher level, education has been neglected as a national priority. The budget allocated to the sector is far below what is necessary to provide quality education. This inadequate funding continues to be a major obstacle to the country’s path to educational reform.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Escalating global tension
Apparently, Joe Biden seems intent on escalating global tensions, possibly even risking World War III before leaving the White House. With his approval, Ukrainians are provoking Russia using American long-range weapons. Biden, once opposing anti-personnel land mines, now approves their transfer to Kiev as part of frequent arms deliveries. Simultaneously, he pushes massive financial aid to Ukraine, signing $20 billion, seeking $24 billion more and exploring ways to write off Ukraine’s debt. This escalation risks dragging NATO into war in Ukraine. Democrats appear set on complicating Donald Trump’s potential future presidency, undermining any agreements with Vladimir Putin.
Provocations against Russia are not Biden’s only strategy. Recently, Washington, Tokyo and Manila finalized deploying missiles and bases on the Japanese islands of Nansei, Okinawa and in the Philippines, citing defence against a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan.
Adding a US nuclear submarine near Guam, these actions exacerbate US-China tensions. Democrats worry about Elon Musk’s influence on Trump, given Musk’s Tesla operations in China and possible interest in improved bilateral ties.
HAZEEM ALI ABBASI
Karachi
Future at risk
The future of our nation is at risk due to a failing education system. Balochistan, the largest province in Pakistan, should have a strong education system, but it doesn’t. In many rural areas, schools are few and far between, with conditions that seem as if they are on another planet. Although the government claims to have built 50% of the schools in Balochistan, the teachers are largely irresponsible, often arriving at school at their own convenience, as if they were the owners of the institutions. Is this truly an education system?
In Balochistan, around 70-80% of teenagers work as shepherds, depriving them of educational opportunities. Although some locals have opened institutions, the government has shut them down. Moreover, Baloch students face discrimination when attempting to study in other parts of Pakistan. In exams like medical and CSS, those who can afford bribes secure seats, while hardworking students with high marks are overlooked, raising the question: what kind of state is this?
The government and relevant institutions must urgently address these issues, as they are not only destroying society but also jeopardizing the nation’s future. They hinder progress, foster inequality, and deepen divisions, creating challenges that could take generations to overcome, undermining the potential for a united, prosperous Pakistan.
SANA BALOCH
Hub Chowki
