GIVEN the evolution of technology and the substantial impact it has on education, the more conventional and orthodox methods in the education system are now being transformed to more interactive and experiential learning practices. The level of research and access of information has brought immense changes in educational fields. Also, making traditional education a relic of the past.

According to Unesco, the gender splits in Sindh’s literacy rate has never been more than 30pc in the male and 18pc in the female. This ratio is not only alarming but also far lower than those of other provinces.

It is unfortunate that the literacy rate in Pakistan has never been given more attention, let alone Sindh.

Delving further into the main reasons for this alarmingly low literacy rates leads to one common theme – plagiarism. The presence of ghost teachers and lack of proper training of professors have plagued our educational institutes, rendering our students incapable of taking any initiative.

Given an unprofessional approach to teaching and the permissible application of cheating, we seem to be shackling our own future. With this impending fear, the future of the human capital of our province looks bleak. The responsibility lies on the shoulder of the government. Professors and teachers alike are all part of the flourishing system of cheating during examinations in which students and their parents are involved, going to any lengths to secure decent grades for their children.

Education is not a business; it is not a deposit box securing monetary investment in turn for results but an investment in the future. I appeal to higher authorities to concentrate on the education system.

Prof Kalimullah Thahim
Jacobabad

Published in Dawn, May 23rd, 2017