THE Sindhprovince, among several other elements, has remained divided by the language factor. One faction speaks Sindhi, while the other speaks Urdu. People in the latter category, like myself, are taught Sindhi in schools from primary to Matriculation. However, they cannot speak Sindhi fluently, or understand it fully. The situation is embarrassing, and it is not something to be proud of.
Truly, there are many possible reasons for the way things have evolved, but the lack of political will, negligence of education department, and bureaucratic complexities top the list.
It is my sincere belief that if the Sindhi language is taught in a systematic way to the Urdu-speaking population after awareness and motivation campaigns, 90 per cent of the misunderstandings between the two communities will be eliminated.
Moreover, it will broaden the base of Sindhi language and may contribute to its literature. The Sindh Language Authority must review and monitor the whole system of teaching Sindhi from primary upwards.
Furthermore, Sindhi language centres should be established in all major cities of the province through public-private partnership.
The provincial government should understand that proper education of Sindhi language to the Urdu-speaking population will have a great influence on the peace, progress, prosperity and harmony in and across the province.
Dr Fateh M. Khan
Hyderabad
Published in Dawn, January 27th, 2025
