LET us discuss the most important factor of our backwardness Education. 'Iqra' is the first word of the first message to our Holy Prophet (peace be upon him). We cannot make progress without 'Iqra'.

We are the victims of illiteracy in addition to our unproductive educational system. Unfortunately, two parallel education systems are running in our country.

The ruling class has been educated in the most expensive private schools which have the highest of standards, the best qualified teachers and the best of facilities.

This system was developed at the government level by Ayub Khan who wrote in his autobiography “Friends not Masters” “We have to open high-standard English schools like public schools, English missionary schools, colleges like Aitcheson to provide leadership to the Nation in all areas, i.e.; bureaucracy, economic, defence, politics and policy-making institutions.”

Please look deeply into the words. We have to think what does it mean? Then what is the role of government schools where the children of 98 per cent Pakistanis are studying? Are these children being trained just for their 'masters'?

Will they have any say in the political set-up or will they hang around like loafers in the streets of their own country after finishing school? What will happen to their future? Are we a nation where all enjoy the same benefits?

This is clearly injustice and victimisation of Pakistani children born in the lower strata of society. We have to stand up in front of feudal lords and the privileged class to demand and get back our rights.

However, we will have to evolve one educational system for the well-being of all Pakistanis.

The institutions run by government schools are only producing clerks and unemployed youth. This disparity has to be challenged on a war footing.

No nation can progress without a result-oriented education system. Besides, a vast majority of Pakistani children are unable to attend schools because of being poor. Why can't some philanthropists see to their education and upbringing? We have plenty of these all across Pakistan.

ENGR. SHAFIQ MAITLA
Chishtian, Bahawalnagar