The hidden struggles of PhD scholars in Pakistan

Pakistani PhD scholars struggle with outdated curriculums, lack of funding, and insufficient support for research.

Picture this: You've spent 5-7 years earning your PhD, countless nights studying, researching, and writing. You're now Dr. So-and-so. But instead of opening doors, you're finding them surprisingly closed. Welcome to the paradoxical world of PhD graduates in Pakistan.

Let's get real for a minute. A PhD isn't just another degree to hang on your wall. It's supposed to transform you into an independent researcher, someone who can identify problems, design studies, analyze data, and contribute new knowledge to your field. At least, that's the theory. But in Pakistan, the reality often looks quite different.

The Life of a Pakistani PhD Scholar: It's Complicated

Imagine juggling three bowling pins. Now add flaming torches and maybe a chainsaw. That's what life feels like for many Pakistani PhD scholars. Here's why:

Many start their PhDs in their late 30s or 40s, often while managing families and full-time jobs. Unlike Western countries where most PhD students start right after their master's degrees, our scholars are often mid-career professionals trying to balance it all.

With limited scholarships and funding opportunities, many scholars end up doing part-time PhDs while working full-time jobs. It's like trying to run a marathon while carrying a briefcase. "Choose between paying your bills or funding your research" - this is the harsh reality many face.

PhD curriculum

Remember your first year of PhD? If you're currently experiencing it, you're probably wondering why you're sitting in theory classes that feel like a repeat of your master's degree. The HEC curriculum, while well-intentioned, often focuses more on ticking boxes than building real research skills. We're teaching theory when scholars desperately need practical research skills, data analysis expertise, and academic writing abilities.

Many PhD scholars in Pakistan struggle with basic research skills. Not because they're not capable, but because our system hasn't equipped them properly. It's like being asked to perform surgery without complete medical training. But a respectful note, PhD degree is not an end, it’s just a beginning… or must be!

The Supervisor-Scholar Relationship: It's Complicated

"My job was to collect data only... analysis will be performed by the supervisor... it's his job." - Anonymous PhD Scholar

This quote speaks volumes about the confusion in roles and responsibilities. Some supervisors are juggling 15-20 students simultaneously (imagine trying to give quality time to each one!). Others view their PhD scholars as data collectors rather than future independent researchers. In all these dilemmas of responsibilities, Ethical question gets lost in between. Data collection in Pakistan can sometimes resemble a wild west scenario. Proper ethical guidelines? Sometimes they're treated more like suggestions than rules.

Due to lack of ethical guidelines or methodological limitations, lack of advanced data analysis training, lack of funding and limited guidance in academic writing, the ratio of PhD research that makes it to reputable international journals is disappointingly low.

A Way Forward

So, what can we do about all this? Here are some practical solutions:

1. Revamp PhD Programs

• Replace outdated theory courses with practical research skills training
• Include mandatory academic writing workshops
• Add data analysis software training

2. Support Our Scholars

• Increase research funding
• Provide language support services
• Offer research tool subscriptions

3. Reform Supervision

• Set clear guidelines for both supervisors and scholars
• Limit the number of students per supervisor
• Provide supervisor training

4. Create Research Communities

• Organize regular research seminars
• Establish peer support groups
• Foster collaboration between universities

Getting a PhD in Pakistan shouldn't feel like climbing Everest in flip-flops. We need to stop pretending everything's fine and start making real changes. Our PhD scholars deserve better support, clearer guidance, and practical training that actually prepares them for real-world research.

Remember, a PhD is supposed to create independent researchers who can contribute to knowledge, not just data collectors with fancy titles. It's time we started treating it that way.

The question isn't whether we can change this system - it's whether we're willing to try. Our future researchers, and our country's academic reputation, depend on it.