ISN’T it both disgusting and calamitous that both the literate and illiterate citizens of Pakistan almost equally ignore the confessions of incompetence from Pakistani politicians? Can any sensible person be stung not just twice, but multiple times, from the same cave? Most hilariously, would any well-balanced and wise individual embrace and lead from the front on contemporary state issues such as devalued currency, rampant corruption, unemployment, unstable democracy, weak foreign policy, unstoppable inflation, and, importantly, the lowest literacy (quality education)? Yet, we have observed numerous political parties eager and enthusiastic to accept the challenge, akin to Samuel Beckett’s prominent play “Waiting for Godot” performed on a theatre stage for the upcoming five years’ tenure. Because, most of the concerned contestants are akin to those proclaiming Godot’s return, repeatedly for multiple times earlier.
It is evident that the Government of Pakistan has almost nosedived, attempting to find respite from various manifold prevalent stifling concerns almost every time but has failed to do so. An eminent Pashto proverb states, “When the debt crosses the limit of twenty, then never try to eat with desiccated,” meaning that such liabilities are of no concern at all. Because such tenfold issues seem to be in no man’s land and jurisdiction. Perhaps that is the reason why neither positive change nor any expectation of change can be anticipated.
In such hectic conditions, W.B. Yeats’ words in ‘The Second Coming’ are aptly uttered, “Turning and turning in the widening gyre/The falcon cannot hear the falconer; Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold.” But it seems that the current deteriorated condition is an undue impeding. Because redemption needs no plan to act; one merely needs to feel, confess and sort down with zeal. It is evident that there are multiple issues to tackle with, but the main thread is literary or quality education, which is the focus of my opinion.
Illiteracy stands as a root cause behind failures in democracy and the challenging election landscape in Pakistan. Literacy serves as the foremost prerequisite for sound democracy and effective governance, evident in the models set by the world’s most developed states. It not only contributes to poverty but also fosters an imbalanced society. In communities grappling with illiteracy and economic hardship, concerns revolve primarily around basic needs, hindering a comprehensive understanding of democracy. This circumstance empowers unfit individuals to navigate national and international challenges. Concurrently, leaders engage in perpetual interactions with the masses, mismanaging resources and misleading the uninformed and marginalized.
It is evident that if a nation’s rudimentary pillar, i.e., education, is shackled, then it means that there is no intention for redemption and progress. It’s a simple compromise with the essence of humanity, and waiting for Godot will be dragged further. Despite knowing this fact, I am still on the pessimist’s seat because none of the major parties’ slogans contains “quality education for all,” and it’s really great time to know what to be expected in the near future.
While quality education is acknowledged as vital for a nation’s progress, its implementation in Pakistan has been limited to rhetoric, particularly around special occasions or post-election periods. The education sector, notably Public Sector Universities, grapples with severe challenges requiring immediate attention. The plea to raise the budget from 65 billion to 500 billion was not only neglected but vehemently dismissed. This neglect, often expected from incompetent elected officials, reflects a situation akin to “Waiting for Godot.” Urgent measures are crucial to address these disparities and tackle the pressing issues. Only with heightened awareness and concerted efforts can the education sector be revitalized, preventing the perpetuation of governmental indecision and societal divides.
—The writer is Lecturer at University of Loralai, Balochistan.
Email: [email protected]
