Education is the solution

Inherited from the British colonial rule, Pakistan's education system has failed to meet modern-day needs, as it was originally designed to produce clerks and functionaries, not critical thinkers or creative solution providers. The legacy of the "downward filtration" theory - an education system designed to create a class of individuals who are native in appearance but Western in outlook - continues to obstruct progress.

One of the earliest and most distinguished attempts to establish a strong educational foundation came with the First Education Conference of 1947, chaired by Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. His address at the conference provided clear direction, asserting education as the key to improving the nation's standing. Jinnah made it clear that education should not only focus on academics but also cover science and technology to build a future-ready nation. He emphasised the need for well-trained teachers, as they are fundamental to developing a quality education system.

Notwithstanding these early efforts, our education system has fallen short of expectations. It has been plagued by a variety of issues, including political interference, linguistic diversity, economic shortfalls and geographical barriers. Over the years, several educational policies have been drafted during national meetings, aiming to address these challenges. However, these policies often fail when it comes to implementation, leading to an ongoing struggle to improve the sector.

The problems within our education system are glaring: outdated syllabi, rote learning and a lack of practical knowledge. Examinations often miss the mark, and cheating, sometimes validated by teachers and parents, has become widespread. Moreover, many teachers lack an understanding of student psychology, a crucial aspect of effective teaching. Without this, the learning process becomes mechanical rather than engaging.

At a higher level, education has been neglected as a national priority. The budget allocated to the sector is far below what is necessary to provide quality education. This inadequate funding continues to be a major obstacle to the country's path to educational reform. With Pakistan facing economic instability and political disarray, there seems to be little focus on addressing the issues plaguing the education sector.

What Pakistan needs now are bold steps to reform its education system. This is necessary not only to alleviate poverty but also to help individuals deal with daily challenges. Unfortunately, the system has produced an elite class that benefits from the status quo while leaving the majority behind. This educated minority flourishes in the chaos, with little concern for the country's larger educational and socio-economic problems.

In a country already facing multiple crises, allocating a mere 2% of the GDP to the education budget deepens the issue. Intellectuals and experts have long argued that the solution to many of the country's problems lies in providing sound, quality education.

This outdated system is not just a relic of the past, it actively harms the country's future by failing to prepare young people to tackle the challenges of today. What Pakistan needs is not an army of clerks, but a generation of self-reliant, well-rounded citizens who are conscious of their national identity and capable of contributing to the country's prosperity.

Quality education must be practical, forward-thinking and professional. It should equip students with the skills and moral grounding to be productive members of society. Sadly, the current picture is bleak. Political instability, a dysfunctional bureaucracy, and a feudal elite that sees education as a threat to their control continue to hold back progress.

Nevertheless, there is hope. Education can be the engine of progress and prosperity. With the right policies and collective effort, Pakistan can reform its education system. The future depends on it, and only through meaningful action can we ensure that future generations are better prepared to face the world. Every individual has a role to play in pushing for quality education that not only enlightens today's youth but also builds a brighter tomorrow for our nation.