THIS is with reference to the letter ‘Death of (social) sciences’ (Aug 3) by Prof (Dr) Surayya Khatoon. I agree with the views expressed by the writer, but there is a point to dissent.

It might be that, as pointed by the writer, the best brains have not been joining the sciences, but keeping in mind the present system of education in this part of the world, which is based on rote learning, how can one differentiate between a crammer and an intellectual?

And let us not ignore the blatant abrogation of merit in the name of quota system. Most students (including myself) opt for alternative choices because basic sciences do not offer a promising career.

Moreover, it is a fact that the people holding key positions in public-sector research institutions are not creating enough opportunities for the younger lot. Students here have the potential and the intellect. The only requirement yet to be fulfilled is an opportunity to use these.

NAZIA AMBRINQuaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad