INTERNSHIP POLICY: The current policy of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) requires undergraduate students to complete an internship to earn their BS degree. Is merely submitting an internship letter sufficient for fulfilling this requirement? It should be the responsibility of the universities to facilitate internship placements for their students in organisations relevant to their fields of study. Also, if possible, internship programmes should be managed by the universities themselves, as many students still face cultural and societal barriers that hinder their ability to secure internships independently.

Wajeeha Baqir
Lahore

RAIN AND WATER: The other day, I was listening to a Punjab minister clarifying the situation in Lahore following the recent rains by arguing that when it rains, there has to be water all around. This reminded me of a statement made not too long ago by a politician of another political party in Sindh. The monotony of the two statements was striking.

Malik ul Quddoos
Karachi

SMUGGLING MENACE: Recently, I travelled from Zhob to Lahore in a bus that was full of smuggled goods. The bus was stopped at more than 10 checkposts, which extended the journey hours from 12 to 18, but the smuggled goods were never offloaded. The state must ensure its writ if it is really serious about putting the national economy on the right track.

Name withheld on request
Zhob

KARACHI ZOO: The zoological garden in Karachi has become a symbol of neglect, mismanagement and shame. A recent visit revealed a dismal scene as cleanliness and maintenance appeared to be completely absent. The cages are in a deplorable state and the animals look weak, malnourished and unattended. Their miserable condition raises serious concerns about animal rights and welfare. The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and other relevant authorities should take immediate action to improve the conditions at the zoo.

Safia Razi
Karach

Published in Dawn, July 22nd, 2025