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Resolution for 2025
As Pakistan steps into 2025, it is still carrying baggage from 2024. So will this year be a mere repetition of the past, or can we finally turn the tide? Politics, terrorism, climate change, social issues, internet accessibility, education, healthcare, the challenges are immense. The year 2024 was marked by political turbulence, institutional shifts, and faint glimmers of economic recovery.
As Pakistan enters 2025, cautious optimism surrounds PM Shehbaz Sharif’s ambitious economic reform package, ‘Uraan Pakistan,’ aimed at boosting growth and improving citizens’ lives. Amidst the nation’s recent economic struggles, including narrowly avoiding default, Pakistan secured an IMF bailout and began stabilizing its economy. Unity remains crucial to ensuring long-term success and overcoming challenges in the year ahead.
It is the need of the hour that all stakeholders should evolve a “charter of economy” for long-term stability. It is repeatedly pointed out that political stability is a prerequisite for economic growth. In the past, political parties have sabotaged the economy for their own gains. When former Prime Minister Imran Khan faced a no-confidence vote, he derailed the IMF programme by announcing unsustainable subsidies.
PTI attempted to block critical financial deals. To prevent disruptions, all political parties must sign a charter of economy to ensure consistent policies, regardless of who holds power. Political rivals must coexist without personal enmity. It’s time to dismantle the hybrid political model that has disenfranchised the public and prioritize democracy and governance over power struggles.
Let 2025 be a year where political leaders prioritise the nation over their egos, where economic policies are protected from partisan sabotage, and where the people of Pakistan finally see the promise of stability, growth, and unity realised. The challenges are formidable, but with collective resolve, this can be the year of progress and prosperity for nation.
QAZI JAMSHED SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Heartfelt moment
Recently, the University of Sindh held its convocation, where position holders were honoured with special tributes and degrees. One such individual, Iqra Iqbal, gained widespread popularity on social media for her unwavering dedication to her studies. Her journey serves as an inspiration to other girls pursuing higher education in universities across Pakistan. Iqra’s success is largely attributed to the support and sacrifices of her parents, who broke barriers to ensure she could succeed. In a photograph shared on social media, Iqra is seen with her father, Muhammad Iqbal, a kind-hearted man. This image has become a symbolic lesson, conveying that relentless effort can lead to success, regardless of financial background. Parents, with their compassionate hearts, always aspire for the success of their daughters, whom they send to universities in co-educational settings. For many parents, sending their daughters to pursue education is not the challenge; rather, it is ensuring their success, which they dedicate to their parents.
Iqra Iqbal has earned a gold medal from the University of Sindh and secured the top position in the IR Department. Her hard work and determination have proven that success follows effort. As the saying goes, “Work hard in silence, and let success make the noise.” Iqra has demonstrated this in her life, captured in a photograph with her humble and gentle father. The image reflects her tireless effort and sends a clear message to all: hard work is what matters, and one’s family background or financial status is not a limitation.
SADAM HUSSAIN
Ghotki, Sindh
Educational policies
I am writing to highlight the continuous drawback in Pakistan’s educational policies, which have stopped the nation’s progress and the development of its youth. Despite being preserved as a fundamental right in the Constitution, education in Pakistan continues to suffer due to inconsistent planning, inadequate implementation and insufficient distribution of resources.
Moreover, the distribution of resources for education remains alarmingly low. With less than 2% of GDP spent on education, public schools are plagued by dilapidated infrastructure, a shortage of qualified teachers and a lack of basic facilities. This neglect not only compromises the quality of education but also discourages enrollment, particularly among girls in rural areas.
Another significant defect lies in the outdated curriculum, which fails to equip students with critical thinking, technological skills and the capacity for innovation. The focus on rote memorization rather than analytical learning suppresses creativity and fails to prepare students for the demands of the modern world.
To address these issues, a comprehensive and inclusive education policy is crucial. The government must increase budgetary allocation, standardize curricula across all systems and invest in teacher training programs. Collaboration with private sectors and NGOs can also play a crucial role in bridging gaps and enhancing educational outcomes. Education is the cornerstone of a nation’s development. It is high time we prioritised reforms to empower our youth and secure a brighter future for Pakistan.
IQRA FATIMA
Karachi
