We are only creating bookworms that have learnt the syllabus by heart for passing examinations or getting a degree
RAWALPINDI: I am writing this letter in response to the article, “The disconnected university” by Muhammad Hamid Zaman published in this newspaper on November 24. The writer raised the issue that the two-point policy of good education and quality research is not enough if students cannot apply their knowledge to solve the problems of society. Being a university student, I completely agree with his point. The main reason behind educating our youth is that they will contribute towards solving the problems of our country. But if a doctor, engineer or an architect, after five years of hard work, cannot practically apply his/her knowledge to benefit the country, then universities need to review their mission.
We are only creating bookworms that have learnt the syllabus by heart for passing examinations or getting a degree. However, we cannot blame the students as they are helpless in this regard. Universities and teachers should take some steps to change this system. First of all, universities should include the practical implication and social engagement of knowledge in their mission.
Moreover, they should also ask instructors to teach students in a social context. Teachers should discuss society’s problems in class and ask students to bring to the fore possible solutions. This will encourage students to think more about solving the problems of society. In short, universities should pay attention to this issue because the future of our nation depends on our youth.
Namerah Zafar
Published in The Express Tribune, November 27th, 2015.
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