‘Bhutto’s nationalisation policy ruined the educational sector’

A heart-to-heart with the former VC of Sindh Madressatul Islam University

Karachi: An author of many books including Biography of Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Political Biography of Benazir Bhutto, the former Vice Chancellor of Sindh Madressatul Islam University Muhammad Ali Sheikh opines that Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s policy of nationalising the educational institutions caused irreparable damage to the sector. The literary figure answered some questions put forward by Bol News.

What is your take on Bhutto’s nationalisation of educational institutions?

As far as the nationalisation of educational institutions is concerned, Bhutto’s thinking may have been positive, but he did not understand the psychology of the people. Definitely, that experiment caused irreparable damage to the education sector. At that time, teachers employed at private schools were manipulated. The institutions themselves used to earn a lot but the teachers were given a meagre salary. Bhutto thought it would be better to nationalize and give social security to the staff, but what happened was that after getting security, they became so relaxed that they stopped carrying out their duties efficiently. It was Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s miscalculation which gave the education sector a severe blow. Bhutto’s intention was good but it proved to be a wrong decision.

Do you think that it is the public sector that has ruined the education system? When did it all start?

Some forty years ago it was not the case, but now yes, definitely. I have also studied in government schools and colleges. At that time, the representatives in these institutions were not ignorant of their professional commitments, and the quality of education was excellent then. These government educational institutions produced writers, intellectuals, skilled doctors, engineers and scientists.

However, after that, we saw a reversal of the scenario, especially during General Zia’s era when less emphasis on the discipline of science was given. And the subsequent governments continued the trend set by their predecessor, and it resultantly hollowed out the country’s education system.

What do you think is the main reason for children’s lack of interest in education?

The main reason for children’s lack of interest in education is the trend of punishments at our schools. And it is also the major reason for the increasing number of dropouts. Although private schools provide a better environment, the situation in villages is very bad. The academics should come up with better ways of grooming the young ones.

What do you think is the need of the hour?

I think devolution of power is the need of the hour. The educationists and think tanks in the education department should work together for the uplift of the sector. We have still kept alive the obsolescent model and there is an urgent need to correct this, but unfortunately, our politicians are busy mudslinging and do not have the time to work for education, health and human resource development.

According to a survey, 62 per cent of our youth is ready to go abroad for greener pastures. What should be done in such a situation?

Some of the most deadly poisons have weakened the country to the core area, getting distance from education followed by nepotism. Jinnah strongly opposed it. He created an independent state for equal opportunities and justice for all, but we have made a terrible interpretation of Jinnah’s dream. Today’s youth wants to leave this country, so on what basis can we stop them? Those in power, whether they are politicians, members of civil society or the establishment, do not understand the gravity of the situation. They must agree on a few things and move ahead according to the ideals of the Quaid-i-Azam, if this is not done, despondency is inevitable.

Do you think we as a society have declined morally?

Unfortunately, today Pakistan is among those countries that have the worst work ethics. The teachers are role models for children, but nowadays in government schools, the teacher get salaries but are not ready to do their duties, consequently, the same vibes are transferred to the students and they learn the lesson of easy and illegitimate earning.

Do you have plans in the near future to do any informative sessions on any platform?

My aim is to contribute towards the development of the country through the improvement of human resource development and career planning based on my experience. My ultimate intention is to establish an institution which I can take up to the status of a university.

You have achieved a lot in life which is a beacon for the youth, who were you inspired by?

Quaid-e-Azam Muhammed Ali Jinnah inspired me. His relentless struggle is a role model for many. I urge the youth to read about him in order to understand the true meaning of life.