THERE is no doubt that a lockdown is the need of the hour owing to the third wave of the coronavirus. However, online classes and examinations are not proving to be much effective in the country because Pakistan is not technologically advanced like the developed countries.

In many areas of the country, low internet speed creates issues. Moreover, in a few areas, there is no internet facility at all. Furthermore, science subjects, like chemistry, physics, mathematics and biology, are pretty difficult to comprehend even while attending physical classes. Online classes have made things more difficult for the students, especially owing to the lack of proper internet facilities.

Apart from the students, the teachers too face problems while teaching online subjects, like chemistry, for things cannot be explained by only showing text, a few examples and pictures while using a mobile phone application.

It is taught by giving different chemical equations, drawing figures of different examples with comparison on the spot according to the question(s) asked by the student(s). Such activities are not possible with low-speed internet connections and outdated gadgets.

Furthermore, transparent tests and examinations cannot be conducted online in the country. Online education may be effective in the future, but, as things stand today, it is not a suitable alternative to physical classes.

I would suggest that students of each class should be divided into groups, and each group should come to the educational institution two or three days a week. The standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to Covid should be strictly followed by every student and school staff. This way the students will be able to get proper education while following SOPs and remaining safe from the virus.

Noman Hussain Soomro
Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 11th, 2021