Science of no science

In a recent discussion with a class fellow about Pakistani scientists, we were able to identify only two scientists: Dr Abdus Salam and Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan. The realisation that these were the only two names that we knew of left me dumbfounded – these have been the only two we have read about in our books. This shows how far behind we are in the field of science in this day and age, which is dominated by scientific and technological advancements. It is said that we must at least spend four percent of our GDP on education if we are to provide a stable education system. But in Pakistan, only 2.7 percent of the GDP is allocated to the education sector.

While our neighbouring countries like China and India are making waves in this field, we seem to only be constructing underpasses and flyovers. Our school curriculum is all about conquerors and we are encouraged to emulate them. There is little doubt that this kind of curriculum will not help Pakistan in giving birth to scientists, expert educationists or intellectuals.

Zeeshan Nasir

Kolahoo