It is during times of crisis that we realise certain deficiencies.
LAHORE: The edifice of a nation is built on the development of its human resources through education, health, provision of justice and equal opportunities based strictly on merit. It is during times of crisis that we realise certain deficiencies.
Making education accessible to all citizens enables a nation to cultivate talents whose knowledge in science, technology, medicine or economics can change the destiny of its people. We live in a world where the best and the most qualified specialists are not appointed at the helm. Rather, nepotism is rampant. Over the years, this country has witnessed a deterioration in development of its water and power sectors, agricultural produce, education and health. Unfortunately, instead of an archaic administrative system, adaptable to demands and changes required to keep pace with technological advances, we have chosen to retain the legacy of 200 years of colonial occupation.
Nations can develop only through research and development instead of a consumer-based economy relying on importing finished products. There is no dearth in this country of highly- qualified specialists. Yet we witness retired civil bureaucrats appointed to head key corporations and state institutions. It is a never-ending merry-go-round.
What purpose do our universities and foreign-qualified specialists serve if every state institution is to be headed by retired officers, who are already drawing handsome pension and housing benefits while more qualified civilians are left in the lurch. The effects of all those have come to light during the pandemic where all major institutions and structures are seen crumbling. This should be a lesson for the future.
Malik Tariq Ali
Published in The Express Tribune, May 1st, 2020.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
