UNDESIRABLE EXTENSION: The government in Punjab has extended school summer vacations till Aug 30 without any reason. Parents who pay huge amounts to private schools for quality education are shocked by the announcement. Instead of improving the standard of education in government schools, the quality of education and extra-curricular activities of private schools are also being compromised. The government should avoid taking such anti-education steps, and at least exempt private schools from undesirable extensions in summer vacations.

Aslam Javaid
Lahore

MALNUTRITION: With 40 per cent of children aged up to five years being stunted and 29pc being underweight, malnutrition is a grave concern in Pakistan. Due to high prices and continued rising cost of living, people are having a hard time providing meals to their families. Moreover, inaccessible and inadequate healthcare facilities further exacerbate the issue. Malnourished individuals are susceptible to a multitude of diseases. These problems are far worse in rural areas. The government must implement robust mechanisms to provide healthy food to the less fortunate families.

Safiullah Faisal
Sheikhupura

UNIVERSITY POINTS: The number of point buses that are operated by the University of Karachi is far too low compared to the growing number of students who depend on them for their daily commute. Even in some areas, there is no service at all, and students are left with no option but to use expensive private transport, which is not affordable for everyone. In addition, these buses are seriously old and poorly maintained, frequently breaking down and causing frustrating delays. Besides, irregular schedules and long waiting times further affect students’ punctuality as well as mental wellbeing. The university administration should increase the number of buses, ensure timely service, and add more routes to the existing ones.

Manahil Aamir Ansari
Karachi

Published in Dawn, August 14th, 2025