HOW MYTHS UNDERMINE PAKISTAN'S FIGHT AGAINST CERVICAL CANCER

Pakistan’s HPV Campaign Faces Cultural and Digital Barriers

Mahtab Bashir
ISLAMABAD

Pakistan's groundbreaking nationwide initiative to jab the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to over 13 million girls aged 9 to 14 marks a monumental stride in the fight against cervical cancer. The campaign, set to unfold from September 15 to 27, aims to reach every corner of schools and communities, symbolising a bold commitment to public health. Amidst this ambitious effort lies a formidable obstacle: the persistent shadows of public mistrust, the spread of misinformation, and a critical gap in awareness. Overcoming these challenges will be essential to ensure the success of this pioneering endeavour and to safeguard the health of future generations.

From the outset, social media has become a battleground of falsehoods, ranging from fears of infertility and halal concerns to conspiracy theories questioning the vaccine’s origins and intentions. These myths are spreading rapidly, creating a barrier that threatens to derail a life-saving campaign.

Understanding the Silent Threat

Cervical cancer, a malignant growth in the cervix, the passage connecting the uterus to the vagina, often develops unnoticed, with early symptoms rarely apparent. When symptoms do appear, they may be mistaken for common ailments, such as irregular bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or urinary discomfort. Early detection is crucial, yet awareness remains alarmingly low.

The Urgency of Vaccination

The vaccine in use, Cecolin, developed in China and introduced globally in 2006, is designed to protect against HPV types 16 and 18, responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases. Already adopted by over 150 countries, this vaccine is a cornerstone of the World Health Organisation's strategy to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030.

                 Courtesy BBC 

In Pakistan, where over 5,000 women are diagnosed annually and survival rates are dishearteningly low, the vaccination campaign is a critical intervention. It targets regions including Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, with phased plans to expand to other provinces.

Early Challenges and Rising Hesitancy

The HPV vaccination effort currently underway features Cecolin, a pioneering Chinese-made, single-dose, bivalent vaccine introduced worldwide in 2006. This vaccine targets HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases. With adoption in over 150 countries, Cecolin is part of the World Health Organization’s ambitious global strategy to eradicate cervical cancer by 2030, Dr. Rashida Batool, District Health Officer (DHO), Islamabad, told this scribe.

In Pakistan, where cervical cancer claims the lives of over 5,000 women annually and the survival rate remains alarmingly low at 36%, the urgency for vaccination is critical. The ongoing campaign initially covers regions including Punjab, Sindh, Islamabad, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, with plans to expand to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 2026, and Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan in 2027.

A Consent Form circulated in a private educational institution in Islamabad, Pakistan 

Dr. Rashida shared that the Islamabad campaign aims to immunise 147,000 girls aged 9 to 14, encompassing both school-attending and out-of-school populations.

However, she noted that by the third day of the campaign (September 15-27, 2025), unforeseen challenges emerged, notably vaccine refusals. Despite positive initial reactions from teachers, principals, students, and parents, misinformation spread via social media caused a surge in hesitancy. “Our teams, alongside civil society organisations, are now actively engaging with school authorities, lawmakers, and communities through counselling and awareness initiatives to transform resistance into acceptance,” she explained.

Addressing concerns, Dr. Rashida reaffirmed that the HPV vaccine is well-established and not new. “Since its global debut in 2006, it has been utilised in over 150 countries, significantly reducing cervical cancer incidences. Our goal is to integrate this vaccine into Pakistan’s routine immunisation schedule.”

She further clarified that the vaccine in use, Cecolin, is a single-dose, bivalent formulation that shields against HPV types 16 and 18, strains linked to roughly 70% of cervical cancers.

The DHO acknowledged that resistance and negative narratives are common in vaccination campaigns. “But with accurate information and persistent outreach, we can dispel fears and save countless lives.”

Federal Health Minister vaccinates daughter to fight cervical cancer vaccine misinformation

In a move to dispel myths and misinformation surrounding the cervical cancer vaccine, Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal vaccinated his own daughter on Saturday, hoping to set a powerful national example. 

Speaking at a cervical cancer awareness event in Karachi, Kamal highlighted the long and difficult journey to bring the vaccine to Pakistan, making it the 191st country to introduce this vital protection, a step already taken safely by many Islamic nations. 

Expressing deep concern over the spread of false claims, he stressed that no child’s life should be put at risk due to baseless fears. 

Kamal shared that his daughter agreed to receive the jab after a thoughtful conversation, and though his family typically stays away from the spotlight, he chose to make this moment public to demonstrate trust in the vaccine and urge parents across the country to do the same.

Addressing Concerns and Building Trust

The vaccine, administered as a single dose, has a proven track record in reducing cervical cancer globally. Yet, misconceptions persist: questions about its safety, halal status, and origins continue to circulate. Experts emphasize that the vaccine is safe, effective, and part of a global effort supported by extensive research and testing.

A directive from District Edu. Authority, Rawalpindi

The Role of Schools and Community Engagement

Private schools find themselves caught between parental apprehensions and government mandates. Dr. Muhammad Afzal Babar of the Private Schools Network (PSN) highlights the need for grassroots awareness. “Parents are confused and fearful, often due to misinformation. Without proper outreach, trust cannot be built,” he asserts.

Data Reveals Critical Gaps

A recent survey by Jhpiego underscores the depth of the challenge: only 19% of caregivers have heard of cervical cancer, 5% know about HPV, and just 2% are aware of the vaccine. Half of those familiar with HPV mistakenly believe a cure exists, illustrating widespread misconceptions.

Collaborative Strategies for Change

The campaign’s success hinges on partnerships, local civil society organizations, teachers, health workers, media, and religious leaders are all vital in fostering confidence. Tailored communication, from animated videos to community dialogues, aims to replace fear with facts.

Looking Toward Sustainability

Post-campaign, the government plans to incorporate the HPV vaccine into routine immunisation schedules, ensuring long-term protection. This integration, supported by Gavi, aims to make cervical cancer prevention a standard part of Pakistan’s health landscape.

A Collective Call to Action

The fight against cervical cancer extends beyond science; it demands community trust, cultural sensitivity, and collective responsibility. As Dr. Khurram Shahzad, Director, Federal Directorate of Immunisation (FDI), emphasises, “If we unite, parents, healthcare providers, educators, religious leaders, we can forge a future where no girl suffers from a preventable cancer.”

Now, the message is clear: facts must triumph over fear, and trust must be built brick by brick to safeguard the health of Pakistan’s daughters.

Mahtab Bashir is an Islamabad-based journalist with an MPhil in International Relations and Politics from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad. 

TRIBUTE TO BASHIR HUSSAIN NAZIM - A LIFE OF GRACE, WISDOM AND DEVOTION

Mahtab Bashir
Islamabad
mahtabbashir@gmail.com

If someone asked me to describe my father in a few words, I would not speak of wealth or worldly accomplishments. I would simply say: he was a man built not of gold, but of grace. In a world dazzled by materialism, he walked a quieter path, one where thought was richer than treasure, and wisdom shone brighter than jewels.

Bashir Hussain Nazim (1937–2012) was not just my father; he was an institution. A self-taught scholar fluent in Urdu, Arabic, Persian, English, Punjabi, and more, he lived not for the spotlight but for the soul. He authored over 37 books, translated rare Sufi masterpieces, wrote and judged Naat poetry with an unmatched linguistic command, and quietly carried the weight of knowledge with humility that made him unforgettable.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuF25zl2Iao

He has garnered immense acclaim within the realm of mysticism for his translations of remarkable works on Tasawwuf. His contributions include the revered 'Kashf-al-Mahjoob' by Hazrat Data Ali Hajveri (RA), 'Shawahidun Nabuwwat' by Maulana Jami (RA), 'Darul Muarif' by Hazrat Shah Ghulam Ali Dehlvi (RA), 'Zubdatul Muarif' by Hazrat Khawaja Hashim Kishmi, and 'Fayyuzatul Rabbaniya' by Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (RA), among many others.

In his capacity as Deputy DG in the Ministry of Religious Affairs, my father took on the esteemed role of speechwriter for the Prime Ministers and Presidents of Pakistan. His keen insights as a literary critic, especially within the Naat Genre, underscored his astute judgment and significant impact in the world of literature.

On one memorable 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal, my father, serving as the stage secretary at the National Seerat-un-Nabi Conference, also recited a Naat. As his voice filled the hall with reverence, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, the chief guest, stood up in deep admiration and kissed my father's hands. So moved, he requested another recitation. Yet, not even this rare honour stirred pride in my father’s heart.

He had the distinction of being a Presidential Pride of Performance awardee and the recipient of the Iqbal Gold Medal, yet he often rode public buses and walked the same dusty roads as the common man. While majority chased fame, he chased meaning. While others counted riches, he counted the recitation of Durood-e-Pak, over eighty millions (eight crore) times in his life, a number more profound than any bank balance.

I distinctly remember once, as I stood before a mirror, running a comb through my hair, he glanced at me and said, “Allah has blessed you with health, a graceful face, intelligence, and...” My heart swelled with joy, but before I could bask in it, he gently finished, “…and have you thanked Him for it? Go, and offer a prayer.” That was his way, redirecting every praise back to the Divine.

Also Read: 
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He loved the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) with a devotion that permeated every day, especially 12th Rabi-ul-Awal, which he turned into a day of service, celebration, and scholarship. He judged national Seerat and Naat competitions, wrote weekly articles for over three decades, and corrected even seasoned scholars on Quranic wording with a sincerity that stemmed not from arrogance, but from deep reverence for the sacred.

He once scolded me for writing “رحمت للعالمین” with an addition of Alif, saying, “You are writing like an illiterate Maulvi. Erase it.” And this was just one example. To him, even a misplaced letter was a deviation from truth.

I remember driving him on my CD-70 motorcycle to Constitution Avenue, unaware that he had an appointment with the President of Pakistan. While luxury cars passed us by, my father entered the gates of power, not with pomp, but with books in his lap and sincerity in his heart. This was him: a scholar invited to the palace, arriving on the seat of humility.

He was called “Ustaad” by poets like Iftikhar Arif and Ehsan Akbar, consulted by the likes of Pir Naseeruddin of Golra, and deeply admired in mystic and literary circles across the globe. His Persian verses are inscribed at the shrine of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) in Lahore, a poetic immortality that few can claim:

تاجدار ملک و معنی، پیر پیراں گنج بخش
کو کب رشد و ہدایت، نجم ایقاں گنج بخش
ہستی او مزرع اسلام را ابر کرم
خطہ پنجاب را احسان یزداں گنج بخش
— بشیر حسین ناظم

The writer believes that a noble character outlives wealth and endures long after death.

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.”