DISCOURAGING POLICY: At a time when the world is facing a shortage of healthcare workers, any policy that risks discouraging nursing education is worrying. Recent reports about changes in American student loan classifications affecting nursing fall into this category. Nursing is central to patient care, not a secondary profession. Limiting financial support for nursing students may dis-courage many from entering a field that is already under pressure. In countries like Pakistan, where healthcare relies heavily on nurses, such global signals can shape perceptions and career choices. Recent years have clearly shown that nurses are an indispensable part of the profession. Policies that appear to under-value them deserve reconsideration.

Shahida
Karachi

EXAM CENTRE: The Balochistan Public Service Commission (BPSC) has only one examination centre — in Quetta — for the entire province. Travelling to Quetta for every examination is financially burdensome for candidates in other parts of the province. The cost of transport, housing and other expenses is not what many can afford. The situation restricts equal access to opportunities, and dis-courages talented individuals from appearing in competitive examinations. The issue is even more challenging for female candidates who often require a family member to accompany them, further increasing expenses and logistical difficulties. Establishing examination centres in major cities across Balochistan would significantly ease the financial burden, reduce travelling expenses that candidates bear during exams ,and ensure equal opportunities for all aspirants.

Aurangzeb Nadir
Turbat

POLITICAL GAMES: The absence of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) in the whole process of diplomatic hustle-bustle related to Pakistan’s engagement with the conflict between the United States and Iran was quite visible. Is there some kind of domestic political manoeuvring going on even in these tricky times?

Malik ul Quddoos
Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 14th, 2026