MNA education

According to FAFEN, many members newly elected into the National Assembly have obtained low levels of education

According to a report on August 16 by the Fair and Free Election Network (FAFEN), a sizeable portion of members newly elected into the National Assembly have obtained low levels of education. Of these members, 24 have matriculation level education, equivalent to Ordinary level in the Cambridge system or a secondary school certificate. Nine members have only religious education without any formal schooling, while the educational background of 20 members is not publicly available, suspiciously. A high number of MNAs possess bachelor’s degrees or higher in various fields. Although the long-time argument may stand that one need not a degree to prove his or her worth nor intellectual capabilities — considering previously unsuccessful politicians with doctor titles in their names — it would serve the assembly as well as the people well if the legislators undergo formal education for the sake of logical decision-making, which can only come from sound knowledge and understanding of the workings of various areas of law as well as adequate enrichment of one’s faculties.

Admittedly, we are looking at a gradient when it comes to education status in Pakistan with millions of children out of school or adults who have never stepped foot inside a classroom for formal education. The cause for a lack of schooling is usually reduced to limited financial opportunities, which was the experience of several PTI members opening a level playing field. Some members in opposition parties also come from humble beginnings. Hence, a considerable number of MNAs have only up to a matric level education.

Professional diversity in the National Assembly is commendable but it would be best for a nation that has been attempting to rise above various vices for decades to be led by legislators who have proven their abilities through formal education. It may be wise to reinstate the 2002 rule that legislators had to be graduates. However, we have our limitations. Once our education sector improves, consideration can be given to raising the bar for induction into the National Assembly.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 19^th, 2018.

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