BLAMING GOD, DODGING GUILT: A NATION SUBMERGED IN EXCUSES

Drenched Thoughts

Mahtab Bashir
mahtabbashir@gmail.com

Islamabad 

When floods drown villages, when earthquakes level homes, and when lives are lost not by dozens but by thousands, a familiar chorus rises in Pakistan: “It is the wrath of God.”

It’s a refrain repeated with solemnity, broadcast from pulpits and parliaments alike. But is this divine anger or human failure dressed in spiritual language?

Let’s ask a simple question:
Why is it always the poor who face God's so-called wrath?
Why do slums collapse while gated colonies stay standing?
Why do tin roofs fly, but ministerial mansions hold firm?

Every year, as monsoon rains swell rivers and inundate cities and villages across Pakistan, devastating floods become a grim routine rather than an unforeseen disaster. Yet, instead of proactive planning, investment in infrastructure, or timely relief measures, the state often responds with complacency wrapped in fatalism. Leaders and officials deflect blame by calling these disasters the “wrath of the Almighty,” using divine attribution as a shield against scrutiny. This narrative conveniently masks decades of mal-governance, rampant corruption, and institutional decay that have left the country vulnerable to predictable natural events.

For countless years, the blueprint for building dams and water reservoirs has gathered dust, while clogged drainage systems and crumbling embankments are left to rot with indifference. Emergency protocols, if they exist at all, are relics of a forgotten era, ignored until disaster strikes. These floods are not acts of God, but symptoms of man-made apathy, where corruption drowns responsibility, and pious rhetoric becomes a smokescreen for failure.

Why do countries like Japan and the Netherlands, where religion is often a private affair, not public policy, survive nature’s worst with minimal loss of life? Why does Tokyo stand when tremors shake its core? Why doesn’t Amsterdam drown beneath the sea?

Because they plan.

Because they prepare.
Because they do not blame the skies for what they failed to fix on the ground.

In Pakistan, however, we hide behind faith like a curtain. A broken dam is not an engineering failure; it is a “test from Allah.” A collapsed school was not poor construction; it was “God’s will.” This mindset is not humility - it is a refusal to take responsibility.

It is easier to declare a flood a punishment than to ask why illegal housing projects were allowed in floodplains.

It is easier to weep and pray than to admit that funds were eaten by corruption and roads were built without drainage.

It is easier to blame “sin” than to confess to incompetence.

This is not piety, it’s escapism.

And this escape has a cost: real human lives. Children buried under rubble. Families swept away by rivers that should’ve been dammed, diverted, or at least warned of. Each time we declare these disasters "divine tests," we pass the blame upwards, and in doing so, we fail every test of governance below.

Let’s be clear: God is not in the negligence that failed to reinforce a bridge.
God is not in the embezzlement that left relief camps empty.
God is not the one who rejected science, disaster training, and early warnings.
If anything, God endowed us with the intellect to prevent such tragedies, and we chose to ignore it.

The Quran itself encourages reflection, planning, and the pursuit of knowledge. Yet, in Pakistan, we have made faith an excuse to not think, to not build, to not prepare. We have confused surrender with laziness, and patience with passivity.

If natural disasters were punishments, then the sinful capitals of the world would be dust. But they stand - protected not by morality, but by infrastructure. They don't rely on divine mercy alone. They rely on policies, systems, and respect for the laws of nature that God Himself set in motion.

As pledges of aid begin pouring in from countries around the world, Pakistan’s political leadership and bureaucracy wait eagerly, not to rescue the flood victims, but to oversee the inflow of funds they see as yet another opportunity for personal gain. While the poor wade through stagnant waters, salvaging what little remains of their lives, the powerful prepare to count donations and quietly channel them within their own circles.

By the time the funds are "disbursed," the floodwaters will have receded, leaving behind devastated communities and forgotten promises. For the victims, survival means bracing for yet another monsoon, another year, another flood, the same betrayal.

So, quite an emotional stuff. But, again, the question is:

When disaster strikes in Pakistan, is it really God’s wrath, or our own betrayal of the duty to protect our people?

Until we stop blaming heaven for what we haven’t done on earth, we will continue to dig graves with our negligence and blame the heavens for the deaths.

75-YEAR-OLD LEAVES WIFE FOR AI SWEETHEART

Till Tech Do Us Apart ... 

Mahtab Bashir

Islamabad

+92 333 53 63 248

mahtabbashir@gmail.com

 

In a plot twist fit for a sci-fi romance, a 75-year-old man in China - identified only as Jiang - reportedly asked his wife for a divorce after falling head over heels for… an AI chatbot.

 

Jiang stumbled across a virtual female avatar on social media - her voice robotic, her expressions slightly off - but to him, she was nothing short of enchanting. She greeted him every morning, tossed in just enough flirtation, and - most importantly - never argued or aged, according to Beijing Daily.

 

Hooked by her digital charm, Jiang began spending hours glued to his phone, eagerly awaiting her next pre-scripted, saccharine message calling him “brother” and thanking him for his attention. The more attached he became, the more distant he grew from his actual wife of many years - until, eventually, he asked for a divorce.

His real-life partner, understandably baffled and heartbroken, couldn’t compete with the virtual vixen’s 24/7 affection. It wasn’t until their adult children intervened - explaining that the AI was not a sentient lover but a cleverly coded marketing tool - that Jiang began to snap out of his digital daze.

 

The incident is far from isolated. China has seen a boom in “virtual digital people” - hyper-realistic AI avatars targeting lonely seniors. These bots don’t just flirt; they sell. From camel milk to calcium supplements with questionable science, these AI figures blend emotional manipulation with aggressive product placement.

 

Experts are warning of a growing trend where the elderly are falling into emotional traps, building one-sided attachments with digital personalities that only exist to sell and deceive. “These relationships may seem harmless,” one analyst noted, “but they can lead to real-world losses - financial, emotional, even marital.”

Also read:

https://wenewsenglish.com/80-of-gen-z-open-to-ai-marriage-and-emotional-bonds-study-finds/

Jiang eventually saw the wires behind the curtain. But for a fleeting moment, the illusion of love with an algorithm was enough to make him walk away from a lifetime of real memories, for a chatbot that only pretended to care.

 

And that’s the most unsettling part: the love wasn’t real. But the heartbreak was.

FROM GENES TO IDENTITY: HOW DNA SHAPES WHO WE ARE

* DNA is life’s master blueprint, holding the instructions for everything from your eye colour to how your body grows and heals
* Your entire DNA, if uncoiled, could stretch across the Solar System twice, yet it fits into microscopic cells through incredible coiling
* DNA testing has become easy and widespread in Pakistan, with labs offering health and relationship tests at varying prices
* Privacy risks loom over online DNA tests, as sensitive genetic data can be hacked, stored overseas, or misused - like in the 23andMe data breach
* Despite popular belief, Genghis Khan didn’t father half of Asia - the widespread Y-chromosome predates him and tells a much older genetic tale

Mahtab Bashir
ISLAMABAD

+92 333 53 63 248

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the essential molecule that carries the genetic instructions needed for the development, function, growth, and reproduction of all known living organisms. It acts as the hereditary material, meaning it is passed from parents to their offspring and carries the information that determines how an organism looks and functions. In humans and most other organisms, DNA is found inside the nucleus of cells and is organised into structures called chromosomes.

Structure and Function of DNA

DNA is made up of two long strands that twist around each other in the shape of a double helix, similar to a twisted ladder. Each strand is made of smaller units called nucleotides, which include a sugar, a phosphate group, and one of four chemical bases: adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T). These bases pair in specific ways- A with T, and G with C - forming the "rungs" of the ladder.

The unique sequence of these bases creates a genetic code that gives instructions for making proteins, which are complex molecules that carry out nearly all functions in the body. Segments of DNA called genes are the specific parts of this code responsible for building different proteins.

DNA: A Tiny String with a Giant Story

Inside every cell of your body, there’s a tiny control centre called the nucleus and hidden inside that is your DNA. This amazing molecule carries the instructions that make you YOU! But here’s the twist (literally): DNA is a very long, twisty strand, about 2 meters long in just one cell. So how does it all fit?

Imagine holding a piece of string. Now start twisting it. As you keep twisting, the string begins to curl up into loops, then loops of loops, and soon it becomes a super-tangled, coiled-up bundle. That’s exactly what happens with your DNA. It doesn’t just twist into a helix (like a spiral staircase), it coils again and again and again, until it fits neatly into 46 tiny packages called chromosomes inside the nucleus, which is only 6 microns wide (that’s smaller than a red blood cell!).

This super-tight packing is done with the help of special proteins and enzymes that work like expert organisers. Even though it’s packed so small, if you stretched out all the DNA from just one of your cells, it would be about 2 meters long - taller than most people! And if you added up all the DNA from every cell in your body, it would stretch so far it could go across the Solar System and back - twice! That's the incredible power of the tiniest blueprint in your body.

Why is DNA Important?

DNA is crucial for several reasons. First, it is the material of inheritance. It ensures that traits are passed from one generation to the next, maintaining the continuity of life. Second, DNA controls cellular function by providing the exact instructions for building proteins, which play vital roles in everything from muscle movement to hormone production. Third, it determines individual traits such as eye colour, height, and even the risk of developing certain diseases.

Each person’s DNA sequence is unique, making it a personal blueprint that defines their identity. Finally, DNA plays a key role in evolution. Through changes and mutations over generations, DNA allows species to adapt and evolve, making it the foundation of life’s diversity on Earth.

How a DNA Test Works: A Journey from Cheek to Code

A DNA test begins with a simple act - collecting a sample from your body. This can be as easy as gently rubbing a cotton swab inside your cheek to gather some cells, or it may involve drawing a small amount of blood from your arm. In some cases, samples might come from saliva, hair, skin, or even amniotic fluid during pregnancy. For cancer-related testing, DNA is often taken directly from a tumour removed during a biopsy.

Once the sample is collected, it’s sent off to a specialised laboratory where the real magic happens. Scientists use chemical processes to carefully extract the DNA from your cells, like pulling the thread of a story out of a complex book. With advanced tools, lab technicians then zoom in on your genes and chromosomes, scanning for tiny changes or "spelling mistakes" in the DNA - known as mutations. These changes can reveal a lot: whether someone is at risk for a genetic condition, whether a disease is present, or even confirm biological relationships like paternity.

When the analysis is complete, the lab prepares a report and sends it to your doctor or directly to you, depending on your request. These results can be incredibly valuable - not just for understanding health risks or diagnosing conditions, but also for unlocking family connections and discovering what makes your genetic story uniquely yours.

Getting a DNA Test in Pakistan: Where to Go and What It Costs

If you're looking to take a DNA test in Pakistan, you’ll find several trusted labs and providers offering services in major cities like Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and even Quetta. Accredited labs such as Genetrack Pakistan and Chughtai Lab are among the leading names, offering a range of genetic and relationship testing options to meet different needs - from health screenings to paternity verification.

Genetrack Pakistan is popular for family-related tests such as paternity and sibling DNA checks, while Chughtai Lab, a nationwide diagnostic centre, provides advanced genetic services, including cancer risk screening like the BRCA 1/2 analysis. DNA Worldwide and AlphaBiolabs are international providers with service points in Pakistan, often specialising in immigration-related DNA testing. If your test is for immigration purposes, the U.S. Embassy may guide you through specific approved channels.

Prices can vary widely depending on the type of test and the lab. For example, a DNA paternity test from Genetrack Pakistan costs around PKR 41,330, while a sibling test is priced at PKR 62,630. Chughtai Lab’s BRCA genetic test, which assesses breast cancer risk, is about PKR 90,000. Other services, like a twin zygosity test at dnatellsall.com, may charge an extra PKR 21,500 for additional participants.

Whether you're confirming family ties or checking your health risks, DNA testing in Pakistan is accessible, with flexible options and varying price points depending on what you're looking for.

Can hackers hack DNA?

Buying a DNA test online has become easy and popular, thanks to the rise of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing companies like 23andMe and Ancestry. These services offer insights into ancestry, health risks, and family connections by analysing a saliva or cheek swab sample. However, this convenience comes with serious concerns. DNA data is permanent and deeply personal - once shared, it can’t be changed or taken back. Storing this sensitive information digitally raises major privacy risks, not only for the individual but for their family members as well.

There are also concerns about unclear privacy policies, weak contracts, and the way companies store and use genetic data, sometimes across borders and for commercial partnerships. A recent example of these dangers is the massive 2023 data breach at 23andMe, where hackers accessed and targeted nearly 7 million users, with racial profiling and dark web data sales involved. This breach triggered multiple lawsuits and highlighted the lack of proper oversight in the industry.

The urges consumers to think carefully before purchasing DNA tests and calls for stronger international rules, better data protection, and clearer contracts to safeguard users. An animated public awareness video and related research aim to inform people of the risks and push for fairer, more secure practices in this fast-growing field.

Scientists Prove DNA Can Carry Malware and Hack Computers

The next cyber security threat could come from DNA. This is no sci-fi fantasy, but the findings of new research presented at the 26th USENIX Security Symposium in Vancouver, Canada. For the first time, researchers have shown that it's possible to encode malware in DNA and take control of a sequencing machine as it sequences the DNA strands. Although the average hacker wouldn't be able to launch such an attack, DNA-encoded cyber threats might become more likely as sequencing becomes cheaper and more popular, the scientists say.

Debunking the Myth: No, 50% of Men Aren’t Descended from Genghis Khan

The popular claim that half of all men are descendants of Genghis Khan may sound epic - but it’s a big misunderstanding of genetics. While it's true that scientists discovered a certain Y-chromosome lineage spread widely across Asia, this doesn’t mean Genghis Khan fathered half the continent. In fact, the lineage in question is much older than Khan himself, dating back around 2,600 years - nearly a thousand years before the famous Mongol leader was even born.

Why the 50% Story Falls Apart

At the heart of the confusion is a shared Y chromosome found in many men across Central Asia. Originally, some believed this genetic signature came directly from Genghis Khan due to its rapid spread - but further analysis showed that the lineage was already common long before his rise. It likely belonged to an ancient ancestor of all Mongolic-speaking peoples, spreading through migration, trade, and intermixing along the Silk Road, not solely through the conquests of one man.

There’s also no direct genealogical proof that this chromosome belonged to Genghis Khan or his known descendants. So far, none of the men carrying it today can trace their family tree back to the emperor himself.

What the DNA Really Tells Us

One well-known genetic study found that about 8% of men living in regions once ruled by the Mongol Empire share a similar Y chromosome, which equates to roughly 16 million men today. This dramatic spread is believed to be tied to the social structure, conquests, and dynastic power of the Mongol Empire. Still, while Genghis Khan’s family certainly influenced history (and genetics), this Y-chromosome lineage is not uniquely his, but a relic of a much older and broader genetic story written long before his time.

In short, the claim makes for a great headline, but the truth is far more ancient - and far more complex.

Mahtab Bashir, an independent blogger and a nature enthusiast, can be accessed at mahtabbashir@gmail.com

PAKISTAN FLOOD CRISIS SPARKS IMMEDIATE NEED FOR SELF-DEFENCE & SWIFT HUMANITARIAN ACTION

· Pakistan’s ongoing floods have resulted in over 150 missing persons and at least 700 fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for effective rescue measures

· Many drowning victims remain submerged for hours, emphasizing the importance of quick, informed rescue techniques

· Water safety expert Qamar-uz-Zaman advocates for widespread training in self-defence and rescue methods, including spinning victims to revive them

· Traditional revival practices, such as spinning drowning individuals on a potter’s wheel, have reportedly saved lives and should be more widely known

· The government and rescue agencies are urged to promote civil defence training to empower citizens to act swiftly during water emergencies, potentially saving countless lives

Mahtab Bashir

Islamabad 

As relentless flash floods continue to ravage northwest Pakistan, leaving over 150 people missing and claiming at least 700 lives, the nation faces a dire challenge: saving those caught in the deadly embrace of rushing waters. Many victims have fallen prey to drowning, highlighting an urgent need to overhaul rescue mechanisms and empower individuals with life-saving skills.

In July, tragedy struck the scenic Swat Valley when 17 tourists exploring the river were trapped and swept away by the merciless currents, their fate a stark reminder of nature’s fury. Across the country, countless others have drowned amid the chaos, with rescue operations led by military and civilian teams racing against time to save lives.

Amid this crisis, seasoned observer Qamar-uz-Zaman Shah, 86, a native of Mirpur Azad Kashmir now residing in Islamabad, underscores a vital yet often overlooked solution: self-defense and water safety training for all. “Every individual must learn how to swim and stay vigilant,” he emphasizes.

“I have witnessed many incidents where drowned victims remained submerged for hours. When we were able to grasp their legs and carefully pull them out, then swiftly rotate and spin them in a rapid circle eight to ten times, many of them miraculously regained consciousness. It’s about quick thinking and knowing what to do in those critical moments.”

The Sindh River meanders through the land near Tando Jan Mohammad, a historic site where Mahmood Ghaznavi once paused, as Zaman recounts. He recalls a remarkable story: a man who drowned in the river and remained submerged for six hours, yet was believed to have been revived through an extraordinary ritual.

According to Zaman, a Hindu Banya, with his potter’s wheel beside him, suddenly placed the drowned man onto the spinning wheel and began to revolve it swiftly. Miraculously, within minutes, the man opened his eyes and regained consciousness.

Zaman shares that he witnessed this practice firsthand during his childhood. He recalls - Akku, a young boy drowning in the river, and how, years later, on the riverbank, he and others encountered tourists who had been swept away by the currents. In a desperate attempt to save them, they held two individuals and spun them rapidly, which resulted in both regaining their breath.

Zaman emphasizes that such knowledge should be disseminated widely, among the public, rescue teams, and authorities alike, to raise awareness of this potentially life-saving technique.

He recounts another incident from his youth: when he was just 12, he saw Ghulam Muhammad, an eight-year-old boy, drown. Without hesitation, he and others pulled him from the water, turned him backward, and spun him swiftly. The child regained consciousness as water was expelled from his lungs, illustrating the effectiveness of this simple yet powerful method.

Qamar-uz-Zaman advocates for widespread awareness of this practice across Pakistan, emphasizing that it could serve as a crucial emergency response, an exercise that might save precious minutes in critical moments. He urges rescue authorities, such as Rescue 1122, Civil Defence and Local Administration, to educate the public about this technique, recognizing that official reach may not always be immediate.

His words serve as a clarion call for comprehensive civil defense training, empowering ordinary citizens with the skills to act swiftly and effectively during water emergencies.

What may appear to be calm water from a distance can quickly turn into a deadly current. Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration official, Dr. Tabassum emphasized that, under no circumstances, should anyone attempt to wade through, cross, or even get close to riverbanks - especially during or after heavy rainfall.

“Floodwaters are unpredictable. Even a few inches of fast-flowing water can sweep away a person or vehicle,” the spokesperson from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) stated in a press briefing. “We are urging people to avoid unnecessary travel near rivers, canals, and low-lying areas.”

Nature's Wrath in Full Force

This year's monsoon rains have already pushed several rivers beyond their danger marks. Villages nestled near riverbanks are on high alert, and rescue teams are working around the clock to assist with evacuations, set up temporary shelters, and deliver supplies.

Social media is flooded with videos showing once-tranquil streams turning into torrents of muddy rage. Bridges have been damaged, roads washed away, and entire crops submerged in floodwater. Yet, despite the warnings, some continue to approach these dangerous zones - often out of curiosity, concern for livestock, or to capture footage.

In a country frequently affected by natural calamities, such preparedness can be the difference between life and death. As Pakistan faces the ongoing devastation wrought by floods, the message is clear: equipping individuals with rescue techniques and fostering a vigilant culture are vital steps toward reducing fatalities. Though the waters remain unpredictable, with the right knowledge and prompt action, lives can be saved from the depths.

The writer is an Islamabad-based journalist who covers a wide spectrum of stories, with a special focus on climate change, human rights, education, sports, culture, and tourism. He can be reached at mahtabbashir@gmail.com

HEC’s VISION 2047: A NEW DAWN FOR HIGHER EDUCATION IN PAKISTAN?

· Chairman HEC Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed unveils HEC’s Vision 2047 and P-10 Project aims to transform Pakistan’s top ten universities into global research leaders

· Announces 100+ Smart Classrooms Nationwide, Expanding Digital Education to Remote Areas

· Pledges to Boost Annual PhD Production from 3,000 to 5,000 to Enhance Faculty and Research

· Despite Budget Challenges, he Vows to Drive Digitization, Academic Reforms, and Youth Entrepreneurship for the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Biotech Era

· Highlights World Bank Collaboration and Smart Use of University Resources for Sustainable Growth and Global Competitiveness

Mahtab Bashir

0333 53 63 248 

mahtabbashir@gmail.com

ISLAMABAD: In an era where nations are racing towards knowledge economies, Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) is laying the foundation for an intrepid, tech-driven academic future. HEC Chairman Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed has unveiled a sweeping vision for transforming the country’s higher education landscape, aiming to empower 15 million youth with modern education and technological tools under the long-term roadmap, Vision 2047.

At the heart of this vision is the P-10 Project, which will initially select Pakistan’s top ten universities to be transformed into global research powerhouses, bringing them closer to the world’s academic elite. “We are not just preparing for the future,” said Dr. Mukhtar during an informal media briefing, “we’re building it—brick by brick, byte by byte.”

Dr. Mukhtar shared that the Higher Education Commission (HEC) is preparing to host a landmark event in mid or late July at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad — a grand celebration to unveil the achievements of the past two and a half years. “It will be a surprise showcase of our journey, our milestones, and our impact,” he said, noting that the country’s top leadership is expected to attend.

Addressing speculation about his tenure, Dr. Mukhtar emphasized, “This event is not about me — the search committee for the next HEC chairman is already in place. What truly matters are the institutions, not individuals. Legacies should belong to systems, not personalities.”

When questioned about the controversy surrounding the Executive Director’s dismissal and the possibility of his reinstatement by court order, Dr. Mukhtar responded with calm resolve: “Whether the court reinstates him or not, it doesn’t change the bigger picture. I was one of his strongest supporters—I was even part of the team that appointed him to the Executive Director’s position. But what unfolded afterward is clear for all to see. Ultimately, it was the Commission’s board that decided to let him go, not me,” he clarified, emphasizing that the choice was a shared responsibility rather than a personal one.

“We’re introducing the transformative concept of the ‘Smart Teacher," said Dr. Mukhtar. “Yes, many educators are apprehensive, even fearful, about adapting to this AI-driven ecosystem—but I’ve made it clear: those who evolve with the times will thrive, those who resist may be left behind.”

He encouraged teachers not to fear the change but to embrace it: “At the end of the day, it’s still the human mind and heart that will guide these systems. Technology may power the future, but it’s people who will steer it. So, gear up, learn, and lead — because the future classroom will need you more than ever.”

Smart Classrooms, Smarter Nation

Currently, 100 smart classrooms have been established across the country’s universities, with 200 more underway, enabling students from remote towns to access lectures and digital resources once available only in urban centres. Dr. Mukhtar noted that education today “fits in the palm of your hand — your mobile phone is your campus, your textbook, and your teacher.”

He said, the third phase of PERN (Pakistan Education and Research Network) is being rolled out to boost connectivity and enhance quality teaching, while cloud computing and High-Performance Computing (HPC) now allow students and teachers to access classrooms and resources from the comfort of their homes — a safeguard for continuity in times of crisis.

PhDs, Faculty & Future Readiness

With only 28% of current faculty holding PhDs, the HEC has set its sights on producing 5,000 PhDs annually (up from the current 3,000), aiming to raise the national count from 24,000 to 40,000. Over 6,000 students have already been sent abroad on scholarships, strengthening research and academic credentials at home.

But Dr. Mukhtar emphasized that education must evolve beyond degrees: “The future is not about job-seekers, but job-creators.” He envisions an entrepreneurial surge driven by youth, particularly in IT and biotech sectors, where Pakistani innovators are already gaining ground.

Budget Battles & Systemic Challenges

Despite this progress, the road ahead is far from smooth. Chairman HEC expressed concern over the shrinking development budget, which once stood at Rs 65 billion in 2018 and has barely inched to Rs 70 billion today. He warned that without adequate funding—ideally at least 4% of GDP, as committed by OIC nations—several ongoing projects risk grinding to a halt. “Currently, Pakistan’s education budget is a mere 1.9%, far lower than regional peers,” he lamented.

Still, Pakistani students continue to outperform globally, securing the highest number of EU scholarships among developing countries. “Our students are our pride. They’ve shown the world what Pakistan can achieve with opportunity and resilience,” he remarked.

Digital Governance & Academic Reforms

Under its ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system, the HEC has digitized the administrative machinery of universities, dramatically reducing paperwork and manual processes. Meanwhile, Quality Enhancement Cells have been installed in 40 institutions to oversee online and distance learning programs.

The Education Reforms Program, currently being piloted in 25 universities, is also reshaping governance, research priorities, and academic-industry linkages. Two Pakistani universities are now internationally recognized for producing industry-ready graduates, proving that reform is not only possible—it’s already underway.

From Urban Centres to Rural Roots

Perhaps most significantly, HEC Chief reaffirmed the HEC’s commitment to educational equity. “We’ve brought learning to cities and to the most remote corners of the country,” he said. “Every citizen deserves a chance at a better future.”

Instead of building more universities, the HEC is repurposing vacant lands within existing campuses, constructing new blocks, and even recommending commercial use of unutilized land to generate income for universities — a novel approach to sustainable growth.

Global Collaboration & World Bank Support

In partnership with the World Bank, the HEC is implementing the Higher Education Development Project (HEDP) — a $400 million initiative to strengthen governance, technology, and faculty capacity through the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE). The goal: align Pakistan’s academic infrastructure with international best practices and catalyse economic development through research.

A Call to Action

Pakistan stands at a critical juncture. With 150 million young people, nearly 48% of university students being women, and a digital education revolution in motion, the potential is enormous.

But as Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed notes, “This is the age of artificial intelligence, and the next will be the age of biotechnology. If we miss this train, we may not get another.”

VETERAN JOURNALIST MASOOD MALIK PASSES AWAY, LEAVING A VOID IN EDUCATION JOURNALISM

Mahtab Bashir

0333 53 63 248

mahtabbashir@gmail.com

ISLAMABAD

"Any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind… Never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee." — John Donne

Today, those words echo with a haunting clarity as we mourn the loss of a remarkable soul — veteran journalist Masood Akhtar Malik. A man of integrity, humility, and unwavering dedication, Malik sahib was not just a journalist; he was a torchbearer of truth, a quiet force in the world of education reporting, and above all, a true gentleman.

His sudden passing in the early hours of Thursday, June 19, 2025, due to a cardiac arrest, has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew him. The news hit me like a silent thunderclap - devastating, surreal, and deeply personal. I immediately reached out to fellow journalists, desperate to confirm what my heart already feared.

Masood Malik wasn’t just a colleague; he was a presence — calm, kind, and deeply committed. As editor of Education News, he poured more energy and passion into the promotion of education than many would expect from the youngest and most zealous reporters. His tireless work inspired interns and senior journalists alike, always guiding with patience and dignity.

Fate dealt cruel blow to Mr. Malik, as if sorrow itself had been scripted into the pages of his life. Just when joy was about to bloom - his beloved son, oceans away, was to be married on Saturday, with the house meant to come alive in celebration by Friday (June 20) - the unthinkable happened. A sudden cardiac arrest stole him away, turning what should have been a weekend of laughter and love into one shadowed by heartbreak and silence.

Yet perhaps, for a soul as compassionate and luminous as Mr. Malik's, Heaven held a more fitting celebration. One imagines that the joy denied on Earth has been transformed into a celestial festival above, where love knows no sorrow, and the heart never falters.

His funeral was held at Sarwar Mosque in Bahria Enclave, followed by burial at the local cemetery. A sea of mourners gathered — educators, intellectuals, journalists, and admirers — all united in grief, paying homage to a man who had quietly uplifted Islamabad’s educational discourse.

As memories flood in, I am reminded of our countless encounters during media coverages and seminars. Whenever we met — often in hotel lobbies or press rooms — I would greet him with a wide grin and a warm hug, always jokingly asking, “Mr. Malik, how’s your blood pressure and sugar today? I hope it’s not low — let me ask them to serve the meal early!” He would chuckle heartily, eyes crinkling in mirth. That laughter — so genuine, so light - still rings in my ears.

Former President of the Federal Government Teachers Association, Malik Amir Khan, rightly said, “Masood Malik's services for the development of education in the federal capital are unforgettable. He stood firmly for honest journalism and worked relentlessly for the betterment of educational institutions.”

"With the passing of Masood Malik, Islamabad’s education landscape has lost one of its most steadfast champions," said Zafar Ali Sipra, President of the Federal Education Reporters Association (FERA). "In him, journalism had a voice that spoke softly but stood firmly for truth and integrity. For many of us, this loss is not just professional — it’s deeply personal. I have lost not only a colleague, but a dear friend,” he said.

May Allah grant Masood Malik sahib the highest place in Jannah and bless his family and colleagues with patience and strength in this dark hour. His legacy will live on — not just in the pages he edited or the institutions he supported, but in the hearts he touched so effortlessly.

"TEA IS FANTASTIC" BUT IT TASTES LIKE A TAX

In a country where non-filers can’t buy a property, a car, or even book a ticket out, being a filer has become the hottest status symbol - so much so, it might soon be carved on gravestones. Because in 2025's Pakistan, it’s not enough to live as a filer… you’ve got to die as one too!*

*Disclaimer: This is a federal government proposal, pending parliamentary approval. Until then, sit back and enjoy this fiscal fantasy- for entertainment purposes only!

Mahtab Bashir
Islamabad
0333 53 63 248
mahtabbashir@gmail.com

ISLAMABAD: The government has decided to add a little extra “tax spice” to your daily cup of happiness, turning your favourite tea and coffee into sneaky money grabbers. Bulk instant coffee now has a 5% import tax, so that big office coffee pot just got a bit costlier. Meanwhile, retail-packed instant coffee faces a steeper 10% tax, making your quick caffeine boost a little fancier (and pricier). Tea lovers, don’t relax yet - whether you’re brewing gentle green tea or a strong black cup, all the popular kinds now come with a 10% “sip tax.” Looks like your wallet might need its own strong coffee to bounce back from this!

According to Budget 2025–26, the federal government, clearly inspired by Marie Antoinette’s** fiscal strategy of “Let them drink tap water,” has decided to quench its revenue thirst by taxing your caffeine fix.

** Marie Antoinette (born November 2, 1755, Vienna, Austria—died October 16, 1793, Paris, France) was the Austrian queen consort of King Louis XVI of France (1774–93). She was known for her love of fashion, art, and luxury. Her extravagant lifestyle, amid France’s financial crisis, made her seem disconnected from the people. Her resistance to reform fueled unrest, contributing to the monarchy’s fall in 1792.

Here’s how your cup just got more expensive than your best friend’s wedding:

☕ Bulk Instant Coffee: +5% customs duty. Perfect for sad offices and bad hotels.
☕ Retail Instant Coffee: +10%. Your Nescafé sachet just joined the bourgeoisie.
🍵 Green Tea (Unfermented, ≤ 3kg): +10%. Drink it fast before it ferments into regret.
🍵 Black Tea (All forms, all sorrows): +10%. Whether you like it fermented or just angry.

But wait, there's brew more.

Despite Pakistan importing 184,663 metric tons of tea worth $468.248 million in just nine months (July–March 2024–25), the government thinks this is the perfect moment to channel Sherlock Holmes and deduct from your wallet. Meanwhile, the tea market, worth a humble $3.14 million, is already wobbling like an over-brewed Lipton bag.

Coffee, which young urbanites sip while pretending to work remotely, was already taxed at 42% to 53% — but Budget 2025–26 looked at that and said, “Make it espresso.” Now, with an added import duty and no caffeine in Parliament, consumers are grinding their teeth even before their first cup.

Economists are warning that these hikes could filter into everything - from café prices to hospitality costs - and stir inflation further. But the government has responded with its usual philosophical shrug: “These aren’t just drinks; they’re symbols of non-essential extravagance.”

Translation: If you're drinking imported Darjeeling, you’re probably hiding a gold bar in your thermos.

But don’t despair yet. Locally produced tea and coffee remain unaffected. In fact, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb subtly suggested in his speech, “Sip local, think global.” (Okay, not in those words - but the tone was there.)

Aurangzeb, who also unveiled an 18% tax on solar panels, may be aiming to create the world’s first fiscal paradox: a budget that simultaneously fights inflation, ruins breakfast, and slows down renewable energy - all in one fell swoop.

Other newly-taxed items include:

Pet food (yes, even your dog’s dinner got pricier)
Chocolates and cereal bars (snacking is now sinful)
Carbonated drinks and mineral water (bubbles are for the rich)
Imported vehicles and petroleum (walk or teleport, citizen)

The budget, totalling Rs 17.57 trillion, aims for 4.2% GDP growth, with an ironic nod to “relief for the salaried class” - though no one is quite sure if caffeine withdrawal qualifies as a salary or a medical condition.

Still, one can’t help but wonder: Will this finally be the moment Pakistan turns to local beans and native blends? Or will it spark an underground smuggling ring of Tetley and Tim Hortons? Only time - and a lot of sleepless, caffeine-deprived nights - will tell.

Until then, pour one out (gently - it’s expensive now) for your morning cuppa.