Distant prospects

 It is generally recognized that the public of Pakistan in general and the policy makers in particular are very slow to recognize that the country's young population is illiterate and ill-equipped to contribute actively to the social and economic growth of the country. It is also a fact that some crucial decisions about the educational needs of the country have not been taken as yet to ensure harmony and cohesiveness at national level and understanding the importance of globalization at international level.

The situation is further aggravated by different types or systems of education prevailing in the country including; (1) upper or ruling class education system  in the shape of Cadet Colleges, Cambridge/Oxford and Conventional English institutions, giving input to the political and bureaucratic system of Pakistan in one way or the other, (2) public education system which is insufficient and ill-managed to meet the growing educational needs of the society, (3) private mechanism of education   being managed by individuals or groups on business grounds- affiliated and registered with the Government but free in  policy making, etc., and (4) Madrasa education system being managed by various religious groups or sects, independent totally in making their choices and promoting religious learning with their traditional curricula and teaching methodologies without giving due consideration to modern sciences for the emerging needs of the society. The situation has led the nation towards split opinion on the issues of national concern and divided the society into many sects and social classes.

All the national and international experts are of the opinion that there is an intense need to introduce drastic changes in each category of the above systems in terms of introducing modern curricula (beyond textbooks), strengthening managerial and teaching capabilities and above all, addressing the social inequalities – as a wide range of disparities exist in the country.The situation clearly demands for close interaction and interrelationship among the systems in order to establish uniformity. Otherwise, the national harmony and cohesion, social and economic development and democracy and prosperity will remain distant prospects.