JI chief slams health, education policies

The JI chief was speaking as the chief guest on the second day of a two-day convention organised by the PIMA

KARACHI:

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman on Sunday lashed out at the government's policies and failure to provide basic services like health and education to the people.

He said that the government's inability to ensure essential services has left the public high and dry, adding that with transparent and effective use of the national budget, the country could see major improvements in these critical sectors.

The JI chief was speaking as the chief guest on the second day of a two-day convention organised by the Pakistan Islamic Medical Association (PIMA) at Karachi's Expo Centre.

The convention, attended by a large number of doctors from across the country, featured five central and 16 scientific sessions.

In his address, Hafiz Naeem urged the youth not to lose hope, drawing inspiration from the perseverance of the Palestinian people.

"Despite their struggles, they remain steadfast in their cause, content with God's will. Our youth should learn from their example and stay committed to their goals," he said.

The JI chief also lamented the sorry state of affairs of the country's education system, saying that education has now become a lucrative business.

"For the middle class, access to quality higher education has become nothing short of a dream," he said, urging the government to make education accessible to all and free from commercialisation.

Expressing concern over the lack of development in Balochistan and the absence of basic health facilities, he also pointed out the financial strain placed on middle-class families by the exorbitant fees of medical colleges.

He stressed the need for collective responsibility to steer the youth away from drugs and societal issues, focusing instead on education and training.

He further noted that Pakistan is experiencing a shortage of doctors, with many highly skilled professionals leaving the country due to a lack of adequate opportunities.

"Talented doctors are forced to migrate abroad in search of better prospects, leaving the country's healthcare system weaker," he added.