THINK PAD
Education is a fundamental societal need. It unlocks an individual's mental capacity, fostering critical thinking and peaceful problem-solving. It acts as a beacon, illuminating the path to knowledge, wisdom, vision, etiquette, and respect for others.
Developed nations with high literacy rates lead the world in science, technology, medicine, business, and economics. Their citizens enjoy financial security, and their governments prosper. However, many Muslim-majority countries, excluding oil producers, struggle to provide a supportive and conducive environment for their citizens.
Pakistan exemplifies this challenge. The country faces a critical situation with an alarmingly low literacy rate and minimal knowledge of current affairs. Most of the population lacks English proficiency, and Urdu alone is inadequate for navigating the complexities of the modern world. Only a privileged minority in the civil service and business sectors can effectively communicate in English. In urban slums, English literacy is virtually nonexistent.
There's a disturbing lack of awareness at the leadership level regarding the continuous decline in literacy. Some leaders advocate for the sole use of local languages in schools and universities. This approach, however, disadvantages the underprivileged by hindering their ability to compete for higher-level jobs. Discouraged and frustrated, talented young people often resort to seeking immigration, both legally and illegally, sometimes with tragic consequences.
Another education system exists in the form of religious madrasas. These institutions provide free instruction, primarily focusing on Quran recitation and memorization. While this is a valuable service, the true essence of Quranic teachings and their application to contemporary societal issues and practical solutions are often neglected.
The gap widens further as these institutions and religious scholars prioritize solely religious education, neglecting the integration of English, science, technology, and other modern subjects. Additionally, deep divisions exist among religious scholars, making it difficult to reach a consensus on critical societal issues. This lack of unified guidance creates confusion among the people.
It's a source of shame that the Muslim community, as a whole, lags behind in literacy compared to other religious and non-religious groups. Pakistan's literacy rate, after 76 years of independence, needs to be improved.
To turn the tide, a comprehensive review of the curriculum at schools, colleges, and universities is essential. It should be aligned with international standards, incorporating Islamic principles while simultaneously emphasizing the importance of English and other modern subjects. Madrasa students, in particular, must be equipped with these vital skills to compete effectively in the globalized world.
The path forward for Pakistan lies in prioritizing education. The nation must be committed to raising literacy rates and implementing educational reforms that meet international standards. However, true progress hinges not only on education but also on a deep commitment to ethical values and a sincere effort to rectify past mistakes. By forsaking corruption, extortion, and malpractice, and by embracing the principles of a practicing Muslim, Pakistan can build a brighter future. Only through this holistic approach can the country overcome its challenges and flourish in the modern world.
- The writer is a retired aircraft engineer