The kids are not stupid

This refers to the letter ‘Shock results’ (October 5, 2024) by M Shaikh. The Punjab University BA part two results for 2024 have caused widespread frustration, particularly due to the high number of students who failed the English language exam. As pointed out in the letter, much of the exam’s content is based on literary works that are nearly a century old, making it disconnected from the modern use of English in professional and academic contexts.

Moreover, the letter rightly raises serious questions about the examination system itself, including whether the exams are assessing the right skills or if there is a deeper issue with how the exams are being marked and evaluated. In today’s world, with the increasing reliance on translation software and AI tools, the approach to English language education and testing must evolve.

Dr Intikhab Ulfat

Karachi