Judging students based on their chosen subjects for Intermediate level of studies has become a norm in Pakistan. The typical societal mindset here perceives students opting for FSc or ICS as highly intellectual, while those choosing FA (Humanities) are often considered academically weak. As a result, many students feel forced to choose FSc despite not being interested in the field. Traditional parents further reinforce this issue and push their children into fields like medicine and engineering without considering their passion and interest.
Another major concern is that most Pakistani colleges don’t offer many subjects in FA to begin with which also contributes to students not opting for a field that aligns with their interests. Government College Lahore is one example where an institution offers more than fifty-five combinations of subjects for FA students, but it remains as a rare example.
There is an urgent need to grant students the right to choose subjects that align with their aspirations, helping them become individuals best suited to contribute productively to society. Career counselling after Matriculation exams can act as one beneficial reform as that is a crucial time for students to understand their interests and ambitions. If students are resolute in their choices, parents are more likely to heed to their freedom of choice.
M Abdul Wajid Wattoo
Lahore
