KARACHI:
Recently, it has been witnessed that schools lack emphasis on extracurricular activities. These activities offer invaluable opportunities beyond academics, helping students develop new skills and social connections. They also provide a platform to showcase the diverse talents and abilities of students, reflecting how they spend their time outside the classroom. It is crucial to create environments that nurture this type of growth, as extracurriculars not only enhance academic performance but also contribute to a balanced, healthy life and improved mental health.
The typical academic journey of a Pakistani student follows a straightforward path: beginning with school, then progressing through academy, college, another academy, university, and ultimately, a job. This timeline, while functional, lacks the richness of exploration and discovery. Extracurricular activities are often overlooked, leaving students longing for change rather than actively becoming the change. This leaves little room for students to develop other talents and interests. Not every student aspires to follow a traditional career path. Many possess innovative ideas and the passion to pursue them, but they lack the support and resources needed to turn these ideas into reality, leaving them stuck in a cycle of hoping for success instead of actively pursuing it.
Our education system needs to evolve to meet the broader needs of students. While we may have solid educational content and capable teachers, it is essential to rethink and revise our approach. We need to create conducive educational environments that prioritise not only academic excellence but also extracurricular engagement.
Narmeen Fatima
Lahore
