December 1, 2005

The needs of the under-privileged children in our society are ignored. Children are our future and our tomorrow, writes Zubeida A. Dossal

From the mouth of children come very pertinent and often sad home-truths, if only we give them a patient hearing and understand their mindset.

Unfortunately, many children do not have the opportunities others have in our society. They work as domestic help, mechanics, tailors or as field hands, factory and restaurant help. Even more pathetic is the fate of those who are forced to beg.

Most of us avoid looking into the eyes of these poor children lest we see the silent pleas for help. The parents of the fortunate ones blessed with many worldly privileges must make an effort to improve their lives. Apathy reinforces the status quo.

One of the reasons for the indifference is that people in general lack knowledge of their individual potential. And, whenever pressed for an answer on the status quo issue the reply is, “But what can I do as an individual?”

History bears ample and very convincing evidence to the fact that it has often been the work and sacrifices of a single man or woman who brought about significant changes in society by setting an example for others. There were prophets who fought against social barriers and superstitions; there were men and women who were instrumental in abolishing slavery; and others who struggled to end discrimination against women.

Today, even in our own country, people like Abdul Sattar Edhi, the late Hamid Akhtar Khan, Dr Adeeb Rizvi, the late Mahmood Hassan, the late Dr Abdus Salam and Dr Pfau, are an inspiration, only if somebody is ready to follow in their footsteps. By taking some time out of our daily work for a cause we can make a difference in the lives of those who are under-privileged such as children studying in government schools.

The recently observed Universal Children’s Day was yet another occasion pointing towards our apathy for children. How many were even aware of the day? What were the plans to celebrate the day besides a few children being invited to the Governor House? How can such occasions help the child community at large?

There should have been a public commitment on that day as well as on every day of the year to work towards the goal of serving humanity.

Though the earthquake disaster has, to an extent, woken up public conscience and people are helping the victims whole heartedly, more measures are needed to uplift the lives of the downtrodden, especially children.

We can sponsor a child’s education, adopt him or her, make monthly or annual contributions towards building or maintaining their schools. Donations can also be made to reliable organizations doing a good job in their fields.

And last but not least, the children should not be left to fend for themselves. They are the ones whom we call ‘our future’, ‘our hope’, ‘our citizens of tomorrow’. The meagre amount the government spends on education is appalling.

A strong need exists to monitor the use of budgetary allocation especially for the education sector. That money should be used conscientiously in a well-planned manner on teachers’ training and providing them with better working conditions and status.

Let us make a promise that we will work for a policy for a better future of our children.

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