Mahjabeen Channa

Everyday across Pakistan, thousands of babies are born into a nation already struggling to provide enough schools, hospitals, jobs, clean drinking water, and affordable housing for its people. Each new life brings hope to a family, yet collectively these births are adding to one of the country’s most pressing development challenges rapid population growth.

Population is often described as a nation’s greatest asset. Countries with healthy, educated, and skilled citizens can transform their demographic strength into economic prosperity. However, when population growth outpaces economic development and public services, the same demographic advantage can become a heavy burden. Pakistan finds itself at precisely this crossroads.

Despite decades of development planning, millions of Pakistanis continue to live below or just above the poverty line. Families across urban slums and remote villages struggle to earn enough to feed their children, send them to school, or access quality healthcare. For many households, every additional child means stretching already limited resources even further. Parents who dream of providing better lives for their children often find themselves trapped in an endless cycle of financial hardship.

The effects are visible everywhere. Overcrowded classrooms, overburdened hospitals, congested cities, rising unemployment, and increasing pressure on natural resources have become part of everyday life. These challenges are not caused by population growth alone, but rapid growth undoubtedly magnifies each of them.

One of the underlying reasons for Pakistan’s continuing population increase is the limited use of family planning services. Although modern contraceptive methods are available through government health facilities and private providers, many couples still lack access to accurate information or face cultural, social, and economic barriers that prevent them from using these services. In some communities, misconceptions and misinformation continue to discourage healthy birth spacing.

Family planning should never be viewed simply as limiting the number of children. It is about empowering parents to make informed decisions regarding the timing and spacing of pregnancies. When families are able to plan responsibly, mothers are healthier, children receive better care, household finances improve, and communities become more resilient.

Unfortunately, public awareness regarding reproductive health remains insufficient. Many young couples enter marriage with little understanding of maternal health, birth spacing, nutrition, or the long-term economic implications of raising large families. Early marriages and closely spaced pregnancies continue to increase health risks for both mothers and newborns, while contributing to higher healthcare costs for families and the state.

Pakistan’s healthcare system is already operating under immense pressure. Public hospitals frequently struggle with shortages of doctors, nurses, medicines, and diagnostic facilities. Every year, millions more people depend on services that have not expanded at the same pace as the population.

The responsibility for addressing population growth does not rest with one institution alone. The Population Welfare Department has long worked to promote reproductive health and family planning through counseling, community outreach, and family welfare centers. However, its efforts are often constrained by limited financial resources, staffing shortages, and inadequate outreach in remote districts. Strengthening this institution is essential if Pakistan is serious about slowing unsustainable population growth.

Equally important is Pakistan’s National Program for Lady Health Workers. For decades, Lady Health Workers have served as the bridge between healthcare facilities and communities. They visit households, educate mothers about maternal and child health, promote immunization, encourage nutrition, and provide guidance on family planning. Their trusted relationship with local communities makes them one of Pakistan’s most effective public health resources. Expanding their coverage and strengthening their training could significantly improve awareness and access to reproductive health services.

Civil society organizations and non-governmental organizations have also played a valuable role by reaching communities where government services remain limited. Through awareness campaigns, youth engagement, women’s empowerment initiatives, and community education programs, they have helped promote informed family planning and healthier lifestyles. Greater collaboration between government institutions and development partners can further amplify these efforts.

Perhaps the single most powerful intervention, however, is the education of girls. Around the world, evidence consistently shows that educated women tend to marry later, have healthier pregnancies, participate more actively in the workforce, and make informed decisions about family size. Educating girls is therefore not merely an investment in individual futures—it is an investment in national development, poverty reduction, and public health.

If Pakistan’s population continues to expand rapidly without corresponding improvements in employment, education, healthcare, housing, and infrastructure, the consequences will become increasingly severe. More people will compete for fewer jobs. Demand for food, water, electricity, transport, and housing will continue to rise. Agricultural land will shrink under expanding settlements, while climate change and water scarcity will place additional stress on already fragile natural resources.

The challenge is not that Pakistan has too many people; rather, it is that population growth is outpacing the country’s ability to provide opportunities and essential services. A growing population can become a tremendous strength only when people are healthy, educated, productive, and economically empowered.

Addressing this challenge requires political commitment and sustained public investment. Expanding voluntary family planning services, strengthening the Population Welfare Department, increasing support for Lady Health Workers, improving maternal and child healthcare, investing in girls’ education, empowering women economically, and launching nationwide public awareness campaigns must become national priorities rather than isolated initiatives.

Pakistan still has an opportunity to shape its demographic future. The decisions made today will determine whether the country’s growing population becomes a driver of economic progress or an obstacle to sustainable development. Population growth should not be viewed simply as a matter of numbers; it is ultimately about the quality of life that every Pakistani family deserves.

The future of Pakistan will not be determined by how many people it has, but by how well it invests in them. A healthy, educated, skilled, and empowered population is the country’s greatest resource. Achieving that vision requires informed choices, effective public policies, and a collective commitment to building a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come.

Read: Breast Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives

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Mahjabeen Channa is Social Development Professional based at Mithi, Tharparkar Sindh.

The post Population Growth Outstrips Resources first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Ambassador M. Alam Brohi

The Gul Plaza in Karachi was gutted by a ferocious blaze a week ago. The MQM-Pakistan has since intensified its absurd demand for the separation of Karachi from Sindh. Karachi, like all big cities of developing countries, is confronted with the usual problems of local governance: poor availability of municipal services, inefficient management of sewerage and sanitation, deteriorating roads and streets, and policing and law and order challenges. No big city in the developing world is free from these local problems. The MQM should stop misguiding the people of Karachi.

Will Karachi be a different city after federalization, with its control transferred to federal institutions such as separate administrative paraphernalia, law-enforcement agencies, policing, and a local government system managed by the federal government? Will new political, economic, and administrative measures make a difference in the governance of the metropolis?

This is all debatable, especially when we know how federal institutions have been functioning in the country and how democratically the federal government has been running Islamabad. The broken system of governance is worse at the federal level than in provincial administrations. Karachi has already paid a heavy price for the MQM’s ethnic politics and its absolute rule under military shadows.

I recall Karachi from the early 1970s. After my graduation, I sought a job in the Sindh Secretariat in July 1972. I visited Karachi and stayed in a small hotel in Bolton Market. It was the rainy season, and the Karachi skies were overcast with thick clouds. The city was not so huge. The crowds on roads, in shopping areas, and on buses seemed manageable. The buses of the Urban Transport Corporation, started by the senior Bhutto’s regime, were comfortable. However, I particularly enjoyed travelling by tram to the Sindh Secretariat. The people were friendly and helpful.

Karachi was a tolerant and all-embracing city in the 1970s. It showcased the true character of a cosmopolitan city. It had pockets of population from all the provinces. After I settled in Karachi twenty years ago, I discovered sprawling neighborhoods of Brohis (Bezinjo) in the western district and over 3,000 families in the Gizri area who had been settled there for the past two centuries. This is besides the Brohi settlements and lands on the outskirts of the city, from Kathor to Hub town.

Karachi was actually a town of Baloch and Sindhi tribes whose villages stood cheek by jowl. Before the advent of the new country, Hindus, Punjabis, and Pathans chose the city for their businesses mainly because of the seaport facility and its road and railway links with other parts of the region—thanks to the ingenuity of British officials.

When Pakistan came into being, the population of Karachi was much less than 0.5 million, with Hindus forming almost 50 per cent of it. Muhammad Ali Jinnah chose it as the capital of the new country. The federal government, comprised of senior Muslim Leaguers headed by Liaquat Ali Khan, miscalculated the city’s capacity to absorb a huge influx of refugees arriving haphazardly.

Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan directed all his efforts towards settling as many refugees as possible in the city, to balance the local population and to create a political constituency for himself stretching from Karachi to Mirpurkhas. An authentic estimate puts the number of refugees settled in Karachi alone at over 0.5 million. The rest were spread across Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, Sukkur, Nawabshah, Larkana, and Shahdadkot.

He federalized the city and encouraged the local administration, headed by Commissioner Karachi Syed Hashim Raza, to accommodate refugees. Many unruly gangs of refugees held violent protests in the city, with the local administration looking the other way to create an atmosphere of terror among the non-Muslim population. The demonstrators were eyeing evacuee properties. Chief Minister Muhammad Ayub Khuhro refused to allow more refugees to be settled in the city. He also toured riot-affected areas and shamed the local police into action to control violence against non-Muslim Pakistanis. He was dismissed for his act of defiance.

Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan directed all his efforts towards settling as many refugees as possible in the city, to balance the local population and to create a political constituency for himself stretching from Karachi to Mirpurkhas

Despite these initial hiccups, the city remained tolerant, showcasing its all-embracing character and resembling a bouquet of different colors, hues, fragrances, sizes, and beauty. A slow and gradual process of assimilation between the new generation of refugees and local Sindhis had begun, evolving a multicultural and multilingual society.

This was particularly visible in other towns of Sindh. The Urdu-speaking population, old and new, felt a sense of gratitude for the warm-hearted welcome accorded to them in the new country. Friendships flourished, and intermarriages increased.

However, the Evacuee Trust Property scheme, the establishment of separate Urdu-medium schooling from primary to secondary levels, and the quota system for jobs earmarking 15 per cent for refugees introduced by the Liaquat Ali Khan government, proved to be major stumbling blocks in the assimilation process. These policies were marred by corruption, controversy, and conflict, hindering towns and cities from evolving into truly multilingual and multicultural entities.

No doubt, Karachi has become unwieldy. It has expanded rapidly and haphazardly. The city has experienced high urbanization since the inception of Pakistan. There has also been continuous migration from the interior districts of the province into the city, often forced by floods and the absence of rehabilitation projects for affected populations. Internally displaced persons, or squatters, were allowed to convert occupied land into permanent dwellings, leading to the emergence of new localities on the outskirts of the city.

The concentration of health and education facilities within Karachi, along with the poor law and order situation in the interior, has incentivized affluent segments of the provincial population, particularly Sindhi Hindus, to settle in the city. These facilities have equally attracted affluent families from Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and even Punjab. During its heyday, the MQM also encouraged migration from India into the city.

We recall the scandal of thousands of missing passports from Karachi facilities in the early 2000s. All of this, over decades, has contributed to the city’s rapid population growth and placed immense strain on poorly maintained civic amenities and sanitation systems.

Federalization is not the solution to Karachi’s enormous problems. An efficient local government system with administrative, political, and financial autonomy could offer redemption for the metropolis. The Government of Sindh should immediately introduce a fully operative Provincial Financial Award.

Since Karachi contributes massively to both the federal and provincial exchequers, its local government should receive a reasonable share of the revenues collected from the megacity. The city should also have a separate, autonomous policing system to effectively address law-and-order challenges.

Read: Grabbing Sindh lands for Corporate Farming!

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Based in Karachi, the author is a former member of the Foreign Service of Pakistan and has served as Ambassador for seven years.

First published in Friday Times

The post Karachi: Federalization Is No Solution first appeared on Sindh Courier.

• Education budgets are low, and the system is not well-managed. Promises are made, but results are missing.

Hamid Khan | Bannu KPK

Education is very important for the progress of any country. It is a way to gain knowledge, skills, and good values. It helps people grow in life and become useful members of society. In my view, education is one of the main reasons behind the success and development of a country. It is also called the backbone of a nation because without it, no country can truly move forward.

Education is directly linked with a country’s economy. It helps people get out of poverty and gives them better earning opportunities. Educated people are more aware of how to earn a living and how to use modern ways of doing work. A clear example is China. The Chinese government focused on education and gave useful knowledge to their people. Today, China is the second-largest economy in the world, and education played a major role in this success.

In Pakistan, the Constitution has clearly mentioned the right to education. Article 25-A says:

“The State shall provide free and compulsory education to all children of the age of five to sixteen years in such manner as may be determined by law.

Also, Article 37(b) talks about removing illiteracy and providing free secondary education, Article 37(c) says that technical and higher education should be given on the basis of merit. But sadly, the government has not done enough to follow these laws, and millions of children are still out of school.

According to reports for (2024–25) Pakistan’s overall literacy rate is about 60.6%. Male literacy is around 68%, while female literacy is only 52.8%. In South Asia, Pakistan has the second-lowest literacy rate just better than Afghanistan. Countries like India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka are far ahead in education. Even in youth literacy (ages 15 to 24), Pakistan is behind, with about 74–75%, while India and Bangladesh are above 92%,

The District Education Performance Index (2023) also shows a poor picture. The national average score is 53 out of 100, which is marked as low performance. Islamabad performed the best, but provinces like Balochistan (46) and Sindh (51.5) are far behind. Out of 134 districts, 76 are in the low-performance category, mostly in Sindh and Balochistan.

One of the biggest problems is the large number of out of school children. According to UNICEF, more than 22 million children in Pakistan are not attending school. Most of them are from poor families and rural areas where there are no good schools or teachers. This is a very serious issue that needs quick attention.

Another issue is gender inequality. In many areas, girls cannot go to school because of early marriage, family pressure, or lack of safe schools. That’s why the female literacy rate is still very low compared to males. Also there is a big gap between public and private schools. Rich students can go to good private schools, but poor students have to rely on government schools, which often don’t have proper buildings teachers or even clean water.

Although the Constitution gives the right to free education, the government has not been able to fulfill this duty. Education budgets are low, and the system is not well-managed. Promises are made, but results are missing.

In the end, I believe that education is the real solution to many of Pakistan’s problems. Without focusing on this sector, we cannot bring real change in society. The government must take strong steps to improve the quality of education, train teachers, and provide equal chances for both boys and girls. Only then will Pakistan become a truly educated and successful country.

Read: Disparity among Pakistan’s Provinces in Education Sector

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Hamid Khan from Bannu KPK is Student of BS Political Science at the International Islamic University Islamabad         

The post Pakistan and its Education Crisis first appeared on Sindh Courier.

• Addressing the root causes of drug use in Sindh requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach

Mir Mohammad Junejo

Drug use in Sindh has become a significant social and public health problem in recent years. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Sindh is one of the provinces most affected by drug use in Pakistan, with a prevalence rate of 7.6% among the adult population. The use of drugs in Sindh is not limited to any particular demographic or socioeconomic group and affects people from all walks of life. However, the prevalence of drug use is higher among marginalized and vulnerable populations, including street children, sex workers, and individuals living in poverty.

The most commonly used drugs in Sindh are heroin, cannabis, and methamphetamine (commonly known as crystal meth). These drugs are often inexpensive and easily accessible, making it easier for individuals to start using them. The consequences of drug use in Sindh are significant and far-reaching. Drug use can have a negative impact on physical and mental health, leading to a range of health problems, including infectious diseases, respiratory issues, and mental health disorders. Drug use can also lead to social problems, including crime, violence, and family breakdowns.

Addressing the issue of drug use in Sindh requires a multifaceted approach that includes prevention, treatment, and harm reduction strategies. Prevention efforts should focus on educating young people about the dangers of drug use and promoting healthy behaviors and positive social interactions. Treatment services, including counseling and rehabilitation, should be made available to individuals struggling with addiction. Harm reduction strategies, such as providing clean needles and syringes to drug users to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, can also be effective in reducing the harm associated with drug use.

It is essential to work with communities, families, and individuals to prevent drug use, provide support for those struggling with addiction, and promote healthy behaviors and positive social interactions. Addressing the root causes of drug use in Sindh, such as poverty, lack of education and awareness, and mental health issues, is crucial to reducing drug use and promoting the well-being of individuals and communities.

Root Causes of Drug Use in Sindh

The root causes of drug use in Sindh are complex and multifaceted. Here are some of the factors that contribute to drug use in the community:

1. High levels of poverty and unemployment in Sindh can drive individuals to turn to drugs as a means of coping with stress, hopelessness, and boredom.
2. The accessibility and availability of drugs, particularly inexpensive and easily obtainable substances, further increase the risk of drug use among vulnerable populations.
3. A significant contributing factor is the lack of education and awareness about the dangers and long-term consequences of drug use, which makes it difficult for individuals to make informed and healthy choices.
4. Mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma, also play a major role, as individuals may resort to drug use to numb emotional pain or escape their psychological struggles.
5. Peer pressure and social influence, especially among youth, can lead individuals to experiment with or continue using drugs in an effort to fit in or gain acceptance.
6. Additionally, the lack of support services—such as counseling, rehabilitation centers, and aftercare programs—makes it challenging for those who wish to recover to find the help they need.

Addressing the root causes of drug use in Sindh requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach that combines education, awareness, poverty alleviation, access to mental health and addiction services, and community engagement. Working closely with families, communities, and at-risk individuals is essential to preventing drug use, supporting recovery, and promoting healthier and more positive social behaviors.

Major Effects of Drug Use in the Community

Drug use can have serious and far-reaching consequences on an individual’s health, social life, economic stability, and overall well-being. One of the most common outcomes is addiction, where prolonged use leads to physical and psychological dependence on the substance. This dependence often contributes to various health problems, including liver damage, heart disease, respiratory issues, and mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Drug use also impairs judgment and decision-making abilities, increasing the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors that can result in harm or legal trouble. In many cases, individuals involved in drug use may resort to criminal activities, such as theft, violence, or drug trafficking, to sustain their addiction. Relationships with family and friends often suffer, as drug use can create conflict, mistrust, and emotional distance, leading to social isolation. Financial problems are another common consequence, as maintaining a drug habit can be costly and may result in debt or poverty.

Additionally, drug use significantly raises the risk of overdose, which can lead to severe injury or death. Overall, the negative impacts of drug use highlight the urgent need for comprehensive efforts focused on prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Supporting individuals through these services is essential for promoting healthier lifestyles and fostering positive social connections.

Strategies to Overcome Drug Use

Eliminating drug use in the community requires a comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach that addresses both the root causes of addiction and provides support for those affected. Community-based prevention programs are essential in raising awareness about the dangers of drug use and promoting healthy behaviors, especially among young people. These programs can involve educational campaigns, outreach activities, and peer-led initiatives that encourage positive social interactions and informed decision-making. Providing access to education and employment opportunities is also crucial, as it offers young people constructive alternatives and a sense of purpose, reducing the likelihood of turning to drugs.

Equally important is the availability of counseling and rehabilitation services to support individuals struggling with addiction. This includes both inpatient and outpatient treatment options, as well as aftercare services and support groups to help individuals maintain their recovery. Effective law enforcement is another key component, ensuring that drug traffickers and suppliers are held accountable, thereby limiting the availability of drugs in the community. Community-based organizations can also contribute significantly by offering care and support to those affected and fostering healthy, drug-free environments.

Engaging religious leaders can further strengthen prevention efforts, as they can influence communities through messages that promote moral values and discourage harmful behaviors. In addition, families and friends play a vital role in recovery by providing emotional support, encouragement, and accountability to their loved ones. Finally, addressing underlying causes, such as poverty, trauma, and mental health issues, is fundamental to preventing drug use and encouraging long-term behavioral change. A collaborative and sustained effort across sectors and stakeholders is essential to building resilient communities free from the harms of drug addiction.

Read: Drug Addiction: The Silent Epidemic

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Mir Mohammad Junejo is the Monitoring & Evaluation Coordinator, Research and Development Foundation RDF

The post Addressing Sindh’s Drug Crisis first appeared on Sindh Courier.

• Even mobile services are limited, and community-based referral systems have completely stopped functioning, due to many contributing reasons

Maha Dev Makwano

Tharparkar has constantly faced multiple humanitarian and environmental crises, crises; including multiple droughts, floods, irregular rainfall, small scale fire incidents, earthquakes, and severe malnutrition among the children and the women. The population of the district continues to deal with deep rooted poverty, extreme unemployment, and tragic incidents such as suicides specifically among the adults and women. Despite efforts by various stakeholders to respond to natural and manmade shocks, the district remains critically underdeveloped with the same critical issues and conditions. Tharparkar ranks the lowermost in Pakistan’s Human Development Index and has been witnessing famine-like conditions for decades. At the same time contributed a greatly in the national economy since decades.

This is proven that only sustainable solutions can solve the problems of the desert, not one-time emergency responses. Since 2013–14, the due to malnutrition the deaths of children under have been frequently reported and widely discussed across the country, among stakeholders. However, while national consideration has been drawn to the malnutrition issues, meaningful and lasting change remains limited.

According to the National Nutrition Survey 2018, the situation in the district of Tharparkar is alarming. Acute malnutrition (Wasting among children) was reported at 33.3%, and stunting, chronic malnutrition (stunting) prevalence stood at more than 60.0%. Underweight children made up 60.1% of the under-five population, and parallel stunting and wasting affected nearly 19.8% of children. These figures clearly show that nearly 1 in every 5 children in Tharparkar is battling multiple forms of malnutrition. This is not only alarming but embarrassing for all of the responsible departments and individuals.

The statistics we rely on today are almost six to seven years old, as the relevant government departments have not conducted a new National Nutrition Survey since 2018. This long gap highlights a serious lack of attention to one of the most urgent public health issues in Pakistan. In the meantime, health and nutrition services remain stagnant, with existing facilities either merged with other parallel programs or fully compromised in quality and function.

Relevant public agencies and stakeholders must promptly conduct a thorough needs assessment and updated surveys for Tharparkar district.

Populations living in remote and hard-to-reach areas continue to face challenges in accessing health facilities. Even mobile services are limited, and community-based referral systems have completely stopped functioning, due to many contributing reasons. This means that sick and malnourished individuals are not being identified and referred to the health facilities with the nutrition services in time, further worsening the crisis. The Sindh Lady Health Worker Program, which is supposed to be the backbone of primary healthcare in rural areas, is reported to cover nearly 65% of Tharparkar. Still, the actual on-ground coverage is significantly lower than what is officially documented and in records and reports. The remaining 35–45% of the population is not covered at all, and no stakeholders are currently addressing this gap in community outreach and referrals. As a result, many vulnerable women and children are left without any form of preventive or curative health services.

The crisis is further worsened by a lack of access to clean drinking water, poor sanitation, and the unavailability of medical staff and essential medicines at health facilities. Over the past decade, droughts and irregular rainfall have only intensified these challenges.

Data from NNS 2018 also highlights maternal malnutrition as a major contributor to the problem. The prevalence of underweight in women of reproductive age is 22.8% in Sindh, with Tharparkar being a major contributor. Nearly 21.2% of households in the district suffer from food insecurity. Furthermore, low birth weights due to maternal malnutrition lead to a higher risk of neonatal and infant mortality.

Despite multiple interventions, the core focus has remained on the Outpatient Therapeutic Program, which treats acute malnourished children. While this program is critical for children in severe conditions, it does not comprehensively cover the risk of malnutrition children and the children with moderate acute malnutrition. No parallel prevention-based programs have been introduced on a large scale. However, for multiple times the government has been establishing and rolling up the chapters, and task units under planning and development and the health department, Sindh Government, but all the programs unfortunately not been sustained.

An effective approach must include preventive strategies, such as, addressing the nutrition needs of children aged 6–9 months and 6–24 months, addressing the prevailing micronutrient deficiencies in children and pregnant and lactating women, strengthening community-based management of acute malnutrition at primary healthcare levels with fully coverage, and promoting awareness to change behaviors and attitudes about nutrition and health.

A key underlying cause lack of family planning services is often overlooked. Larger family sizes without adequate resources directly contribute to poverty and malnutrition. Unless such contributing factors are addressed at the policy-making level, the burden of malnutrition will either remain the same or worsen.

There is also a need to develop district-specific strategies. We often make the mistake of designing uniform programs for urban and rural areas, coastal belts, and deserts alike, despite their immensely different needs. This one-size-fits-all approach fails to create effective change. We must study local contexts and develop customized, sustainable strategies that respond directly to the needs of regions like Tharparkar.

As one expert once told me during a discussion on government safety net programs, “All interventions seem well-intentioned, but when I look closely, I see that the actual planning rarely focuses on saving the lives of those individuals who are just an inch away from death.”

Relevant public agencies and stakeholders must promptly conduct a thorough needs assessment and updated surveys for Tharparkar district. The results and suggestions must subsequently be communicated to those making policy-level decisions. Activating and effectively operationalizing the existing committees, local chapters, and technical working groups in the district is also crucial for their coordination and consultation with one another.

Up to this point, stakeholders have seemed reluctant to disclose details regarding their interventions. They now need to collaborate, exchange data, and reshape their initiatives according to the suggestions and results given by the technical working groups and committees. Enhanced cooperation and openness are vital for tackling the persistent crisis in Tharparkar.

Read: Tharparkar District Facing Multifaceted Crises

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Maha Dev Makwano is a writer and development and humanitarian practitioner. He contributes to public dialogue on health and nutrition through newspaper commentary, and writes for English and Sindhi newspapers and magazines. He can be reached at mahadevmakwano@gmail.com

The post Malnutrition Crisis in Tharparkar first appeared on Sindh Courier.

By Dr. Abdullah G. Arijo

The prolonged absence of Vice Chancellors at Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, and the University of Sindh, Jamshoro, is an alarming issue that deeply affects faculty, researchers, and students. Strong leadership is essential for institutional stability, academic excellence, and strategic reforms. However, delays in key appointments disrupt core administrative functions, stall research initiatives, and weaken decision-making processes, undermining the future of higher education in Sindh.

A university without stable leadership faces challenges in governance, policy implementation, and funding allocations. Faculty members, particularly those dedicated to research, education reforms, and institutional development, bear the brunt of this uncertainty. Therefore, authorities must expedite the appointment process to restore normalcy and ensure the uninterrupted progress of academic institutions.

Pakistan’s higher education sector is facing a governance crisis that threatens academic stability, institutional progress, and strategic decision-making. Currently, 60 universities across the country are operating without permanent Vice Chancellors or Rectors, leaving them in administrative limbo. This issue is most severe in Punjab, where 22 universities lack stable leadership, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Sindh also grapple with leadership gaps.

Institutional Decline and Its Consequences

Strong, consistent leadership is the backbone of a well-functioning university, ensuring stability, strategic direction, and academic excellence. Without long-term leadership, universities face significant challenges, including stalled decision-making, ineffective governance, and compromised institutional progress. The absence of dedicated leadership hampers essential policy implementation in research, faculty development, and student welfare, leaving academic institutions without a clear vision for advancement. Acting Vice Chancellors, often lacking decision-making authority, struggle with administrative paralysis, delaying crucial tasks such as faculty recruitment, budget allocations, and curriculum development. As leadership instability persists, academic standards decline, reducing research output and weakening the university’s ability to attract and retain top faculty members. Moreover, political interference thrives in leadership voids, enabling favoritism, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and compromised appointments that erode institutional integrity. For universities to thrive and maintain their role as centers of knowledge, innovation, and progress, stable and visionary leadership is essential.

Without stable leadership, universities lose credibility, slipping in national and international rankings. This deterioration directly impacts student enrollment, faculty recruitment, and research collaborations, making institutions less attractive to scholars and academics. A lack of strategic vision exacerbates financial instability, mismanagement of scholarships and research grants, and difficulty in securing external funding.

Faculty and students bear the brunt of this crisis, experiencing frustration, disengagement, and declining morale. With top academics opting to leave for better opportunities abroad, Pakistan faces a brain drain, further weakening the country’s intellectual and research capabilities.

What Needs to Be Done?

To restore stability and academic excellence in higher education, the government must take urgent and decisive action by streamlining the selection process to ensure timely and merit-based leadership appointments, cutting excessive bureaucratic red tape that hampers both leadership selections and institutional functionality, granting universities greater autonomy in selecting their leadership to minimize political interference, and enforcing transparency and accountability by holding officials responsible for appointment delays. These measures will strengthen governance, improve institutional efficiency, and safeguard the integrity of higher education.

Sindh Higher Education Challenges

Sindh’s universities face severe governance deficiencies, with faculty stability, academic calendars, and research initiatives frequently disrupted, hindering academic progress and institutional growth. Without urgent intervention, Pakistan’s higher education system will struggle to compete globally, diminishing research excellence and innovation. The absence of permanent leadership in universities is not merely an administrative setback but a national crisis that demands immediate attention. If swift action is not taken, these institutions risk long-term decline, ultimately jeopardizing the future of countless students and scholars.

Read: Deterioration of Education in Sindh

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Dr. Abdullah G. Arijo is a retired professor, ex: chairman, Department of Parasitology, Sindh Agriculture University, Tando Jam, ex-advisor Academics & P&D to Vice Chancellor, SAU Tandojam. Email: Email: abdullaharijo@gmail.com

The post Leadership Vacuum in Universities of Sindh first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Instead of fostering problem-solvers, our system rewards good test-takers

By Sarah Gillani

It starts in primary school: filling in bubbles, racing against a ticking clock, and memorizing facts that might show up on “the big exam.” By high school, students aren’t just learning—they’re performing. And somewhere along the way, something vital gets lost.

That something is creativity.

In a system obsessed with numbers, students are being trained to meet standards instead of set them. And it’s not just unfortunate—it’s unsustainable.

In classrooms across Pakistan, teachers like Ms. Farah Khan in Lahore face a tough choice: stick to the curriculum, or nurture creativity. “I used to ask students to write poems or stories,” she says. “But now, every free period becomes test prep.” Her Grade 9 class once made documentaries and built mini-projects on historical events. Now? It’s all multiple-choice and fill-in-the-blanks—because that’s what “matters.”

“I had a student who loved art,” she adds. “He told me, ‘Miss, drawing doesn’t help me pass.’ That broke my heart.”

Standardized tests reward right answers, not original ones. Students who think differently, solve problems in unconventional ways, or ask “why?” instead of “what?” often get left behind.

Take 15-year-old Ayan from Rawalpindi. He built a working model of a smart irrigation system for a school science fair. But when board exams came around? “He scored just average in science,” his teacher shared, “because the test didn’t ask about real-world solutions. It asked about definitions.”

Neuroscience supports what teachers already know: creative thinking requires time, exploration, and autonomy—not pressure, time limits, and rote memorization. “High-stakes testing activates fear centers in the brain,” explains education researcher Dr. Zainab Haider. “When that happens, creative and critical thinking actually shut down.”

Instead of fostering problem-solvers, our system rewards good test-takers.

In Finland—often ranked among the best education systems—standardized testing is rare until the very end of high school. Instead, schools prioritize project-based learning, collaboration, and curiosity. “Students aren’t memorizing—they’re exploring,” says Sanna Lehtinen, a Finnish principal. “We want thinkers, not robots.”

If they can rethink testing—why can’t we?

Ask students how testing affects them, and you’ll get brutally honest answers:

“I feel like my intelligence is just my grades now.” — Hiba, 16, Karachi

“I used to write poetry. Now I memorize essays someone else wrote.” — Daniyal, 17, Lahore

“I’m scared to be wrong, even when I have a good idea.” — Sana, 14, Islamabad

These aren’t signs of laziness. They’re cries for the freedom to think.

Imagine a classroom where students design their own science experiments, build apps to solve local issues, or stage theatre plays about historical events. Where tests don’t just ask for facts—but challenge students to connect ideas, defend opinions, and imagine possibilities.

That’s not a fantasy. It’s the education system we could build—if we stop letting tests limit our definition of learning.

Not every child will grow up to be a mathematician, a doctor, or an engineer. But every child will need to think creatively, adapt quickly, and solve problems the world hasn’t seen yet.

Standardized tests don’t prepare them for that world. They prepare them for yesterdays.

So maybe the question isn’t how students are scoring. Maybe it’s: what are they losing along the way?

Because if we keep teaching kids to color inside the lines, we shouldn’t be surprised when they stop drawing altogether.

Read – Esports: More Than Just A Game

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Sarah Gillani is a Bachelors student at the department of Mass Communication, University of Karachi.

The post Hidden Cost of Exams: Creativity in Crisis first appeared on Sindh Courier.

People are losing hope, which triggers depression and other negative conditions. They have lost faith in their future and also in the future of their society.

Ali Nawaz Rahimoo

In Pakistan, nearly two-thirds of the population is under 30, which is often referred to as the country’s greatest asset. These young people have the opportunity to change Pakistan for the better. However, a large percentage of them are struggling. They face numerous challenges, including poverty, lack of quality education, and instability, that hinder their growth and overall well-being. How can Pakistan improve conditions and opportunities for its young people to help them thrive?

The situation in Pakistan is bad enough, but what if I told you it is worse than you think? According to statistics, unemployment among youth is hovering around 8.5%. But that’s just what’s being reported, or at least that’s what they want you to think. Unofficial sources say the number is much higher.

Many graduates are forced to settle for underpaid jobs, or even worse, stay unemployed for years. This lack of opportunities is a serious issue. As you might imagine, it causes an inordinate amount of mental distress. People lose hope, which can trigger depression and other negative conditions. These folks lose faith in their future and also in the future of their society. That lack of faith can be dangerous.

Pakistan’s educational system suffers from many issues. First, the curricula are outdated, meaning that the students are not being taught the knowledge that is required of them when they enter the workforce. Second, the schools often lack the infrastructure to do what they need to do. This includes things like poor or no internet, lack of access to up-to-date texts, and a shortage of properly qualified teachers. Third, there is disconnect between the requirements of the modern job market and what the students are being taught in school.

These are the basic problems, but they lead to further issues. One is that there is a difference in the quality of education between urban and rural areas. It is easier for urban schools to keep their standards up, while rural schools often fall behind. This also brings up the issue of the limited technical and vocational training. Rural schools have even less access to this kind of training. This leaves many young people, and especially those from rural areas, unprepared for the evolving economy. Mental health is just as important as physical health but in Pakistan, mental health is still much stigmatized. Despite rising stress among Pakistan’s youth from a lack of employment, emotional support, and affordable mental health services, mental health remains stigmatized. Even when the media touches on the subject, it is portrayed negatively. More focus should be given to addressing the mental health of Pakistan’s youth and less focus on the negative aspects of their experiences. If Pakistan wants its youth to be able to thrive, it needs to address their mental health. Another major issue is the absence of structured career counseling and mentoring. Most young people, especially from rural backgrounds, do not have access to information about scholarships, job options, or entrepreneurial opportunities. This lack of guidance is compounded by an absence of role models. Many children and young adults in rural areas of Sindh don’t know any adults who have successfully created their own businesses or who have had careers that took them away from the farm.

Read – Pakistan’s Youth Unemployment Crisis: A Wake-Up Call

Women face gender-based inequality. This inequality can restrict women’s access to education, employment, and mobility. Furthermore, cultural norms and expectations can make it harder for young women to participate in public life. For instance, some cultures may frown upon women working outside the home, and if a woman does work outside the home, the pay she receives may be lower than the pay a man receives for doing the same job.

Radicalization and Drug Abuse In vulnerable communities, lack of education, economic deprivation, and exposure to extremist ideologies create a breeding ground for radicalization. Simultaneously, the spread of drug abuse is becoming a serious threat, particularly among urban youth, as a coping mechanism for hopelessness and stress.

To harness the potential of its youth, Pakistan must make bold and inclusive policy choices. These choices must include increasing funding for public education, including community schools and colleges. Also, the government should work to improve the mental health services available to all Pakistanis. There needs to be an increase in job creation and investment in skills training programs. Finally, increased youth representation in governance and policy making would be helpful to guarantee that the voices of young people are heard.

The government, civil society, and private sector must work together to create a future where young people have the tools and support they need to thrive. This is not only the right thing to do but the only way to avoid future setbacks. Ignoring their struggles today risks the country’s progress tomorrow. Young people are already facing unprecedented hurdles, and their outlook for the future is not bright. The youth of Pakistan stand at a crossroads. With the right support, they can lead the nation into a new era of prosperity and innovation. But without urgent intervention, their dreams and Pakistan’s future may remain unfulfilled.

Read – Khekhro: The King of Thar Desert

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The writer is a social development professional based in Umarkot Sindh. He can be contacted by email anrahimoo@gmail.com

The post Pakistan’s Young Generation in Crisis first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Sawera Nadeem

Drug addiction among youth is an alarming issue that demands immediate attention from society, families, and institutions alike. In recent years, the number of young individuals falling into the trap of substance abuse has seen a sharp rise. This growing crisis not only endangers the physical and mental well-being of our youth but also threatens the overall stability of communities and the future of nations.

Drug addiction is a chronic disease that affects the brain’s reward system, causing compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite harmful consequences. It is essential to distinguish between drug use, misuse, and addiction. Use refers to the occasional or prescribed intake of drugs. Misuse involves taking drugs in a way that is not recommended, such as using someone else’s prescription. Addiction, however, is when a person loses control and becomes dependent on the substance, both mentally and physically.

There are several causes behind this dangerous trend. Psychologically, young individuals may use drugs as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression. Socially, a lack of parental supervision, broken family structures, and peer pressure contribute significantly. Economic factors such as poverty and unemployment can lead youth to seek escape through drugs, while environmental elements—like exposure to drug-friendly communities—can normalize such behaviors.

Among the substances most commonly abused are marijuana, heroin, crystal meth, cocaine, prescription opioids, and inhalants. These drugs vary in intensity and impact, but all have the potential to destroy lives. They not only impair judgment and physical health but also affect brain development, making it harder for young people to concentrate, study, or maintain relationships.

The impact of drug addiction on youth is devastating. Health-wise, it can lead to overdose, long-term organ damage, mental disorders, and even death. Socially, addiction causes isolation, aggressive behavior, and conflicts with family or friends. Academically, it often leads to declining performance, absenteeism, and dropping out of school or college. Over time, many addicted youth also face criminal charges, homelessness, or unemployment.

Recognizing the warning signs early is crucial. These may include sudden changes in behavior, poor academic performance, secretiveness, mood swings, weight loss, and frequent requests for money. Parents, teachers, and friends need to stay alert and act quickly if they notice such symptoms.

External influences, especially peer pressure and media portrayal of drug use, also play a huge role in addiction. Young people often imitate what they see in movies, music, or social media, thinking it’s “cool” or a way to fit in. Friends who already use drugs can also persuade others to join in, making it harder to say no.

Prevention is better than cure. Educating youth about the risks of drugs, creating strong communication within families, encouraging healthy activities, and building resilience in schools can go a long way in protecting them. Communities must also provide safe spaces and engage in awareness campaigns that help steer young people toward positive choices.

For those already struggling with addiction, recovery is possible. Rehabilitation centers offer therapy, medication, and detox programs tailored to individual needs. Counseling, both individual and group-based, helps addicts understand their behavior and triggers. Support from family, mentors, and peer groups is essential for long-term recovery.

Government bodies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are also stepping in to combat the crisis. Awareness drives, school-based programs, helplines, and affordable rehab centers are some of the initiatives being implemented. However, more coordinated efforts are required to reach every corner of society.

There are also inspiring stories of young people who have battled addiction and come out stronger. Their voices remind us that recovery is real and possible with the right help and determination. These stories not only break the stigma but also offer hope to those still struggling.

In conclusion, drug addiction among youth is a serious challenge that requires collective responsibility. By understanding the roots of the problem, recognizing its signs, and promoting awareness and support, we can protect our youth from falling into this dangerous trap. The time to act is now—for their future and ours.

Read: Climate Change: The Earth in Crisis

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Sawera Nadeem, based in Karachi, is a Mass Communication student with a passion for research-based writing.  She focuses on topics that highlight public interest and social impact.

The post Drug Addiction Among Youth: A Growing Crisis first appeared on Sindh Courier.

This article explores the urgent reality of climate change, its causes, and devastating effects—especially in South Asia and Pakistan. It also highlights the role of youth, media, and global cooperation in addressing this critical issue.

Sawera Nadeem

The Earth, once abundant with natural beauty and resources, is now under siege. Climate change and environmental neglect have accelerated ecological deterioration, threatening biodiversity, ecosystems, and human well-being. Melting glaciers, erratic weather patterns, and rising sea levels are no longer distant warnings—they are today’s realities. To combat this growing threat, we must first understand its root causes, recognize its consequences, and commit to sustainable change.

The Science of Climate Change

Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. While some variation is natural, the recent drastic changes are largely driven by human activities. These changes disrupt the balance of ecosystems, endanger wildlife, and increase the frequency of extreme weather events.

How Human Activities Accelerate Global Warming

The burning of fossil fuels—coal, oil, and gas—releases massive amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, leading to a warming effect known as the greenhouse effect. Deforestation, industrial pollution, and overconsumption further exacerbate this problem by reducing Earth’s ability to absorb carbon and maintain climate balance.

Environmental Neglect

Environmental neglect goes hand in hand with climate change. Our reliance on plastic, unregulated industrial waste, and destruction of forests for agriculture and urbanization damages the environment at an alarming pace. Forests act as carbon sinks, but their removal reduces the planet’s ability to regulate climate. Meanwhile, unchecked pollution contaminates air, water, and soil, making life increasingly unsustainable

The Silent Killers

Microplastics now permeate oceans and food chains, while air pollutants cause respiratory diseases and reduce life expectancy. Contaminated water—whether from pesticides, industrial runoff, or improper waste disposal—harms both ecosystems and human populations. These ‘silent killers’ are often overlooked in everyday life, yet they pose some of the gravest threats to global health.

Local Impacts

South Asia is one of the most vulnerable regions to climate change. Heatwaves have become more intense, causing heatstroke and death. Floods displace millions annually, while prolonged droughts affect food security and agricultural livelihoods. Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan are already bearing the brunt of this climatic imbalance.

Pakistan’s Water Crisis and Urban Pollution

Pakistan faces a severe water shortage due to mismanagement, climate-induced glacial melt, and inefficient irrigation systems. At the same time, urban centers like Karachi and Lahore suffer from toxic air quality and poor waste management, contributing to rising health issues and a deteriorating quality of life.

The Human Cost – Climate Refugees

As rising sea levels consume coastal areas and extreme weather destroys homes, millions become climate refugees. These individuals are forced to migrate in search of safety, facing uncertain futures and straining social systems in host communities.

Rising Disease and Respiratory Issues

Climate change has led to an increase in vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue, while air pollution triggers asthma, heart disease, and lung cancer. The poor often suffer disproportionately due to lack of healthcare and environmental protection.

Environmental Injustice: Who Suffers the Most?

Environmental degradation impacts everyone, but not equally. Marginalized communities are more likely to live in polluted areas and lack the resources to recover from climate disasters. This deepens existing inequalities and perpetuates cycles of poverty and suffering.

Unequal Responsibility

While industrialized nations have contributed the most to climate change, developing countries bear its harshest consequences. This imbalance raises ethical questions about responsibility, climate justice, and reparations.

Small Actions, Big Impact

Individual efforts like reducing plastic use, conserving water, and choosing eco-friendly transportation can collectively make a difference. Sustainable agriculture, renewable energy adoption, and waste reduction also play key roles.

Green Policies and Climate Agreements: Are They Working?

International agreements like the Paris Accord aim to curb emissions, but their success depends on accountability and enforcement. National policies must align with global goals, ensuring both ecological protection and economic development.

How Youth Are Leading the Fight

Young activists like Greta Thunberg have inspired millions to join climate movements. In Pakistan and beyond, youth-led campaigns demand action from leaders and promote awareness through digital platforms.

The Role of Media in Environmental Advocacy

Media has a powerful role in shaping public opinion. Documentaries, social media campaigns, and investigative journalism spotlight environmental issues, mobilizing communities and influencing policy decisions.

Climate Action Starts with Awareness

Educate yourself and others. Support sustainable brands. Pressure policymakers to prioritize the environment. Join local clean-up drives. Every action counts—no matter how small.

Saving the Planet Is Not Optional – It’s Urgent

We are running out of time. Immediate, collective action is the only way to prevent irreversible damage. The responsibility lies with governments, industries, communities, and individuals alike.

A Shared Responsibility: Healing the Earth Together

Climate change and environmental neglect are not future problems—they are happening now. But through awareness, action, and unity, we can protect the planet for future generations. Healing Earth is not just a necessity; it is a moral obligation.

Read: Earth’s Latest ‘Vital Signs’ Show the Planet Is in Crisis

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Sawera Nadeem, based in Karachi, is a Mass Communication student with a passion for research-based writing.  She focuses on topics that highlight public interest and social impact.

Read: Gas Meter Ban in Sindh: A New Energy Crisis

The post Climate Change: The Earth in Crisis first appeared on Sindh Courier.