Pity de nation dat is full of beliefs and empty of religion. Pity de nation dat wears a cloth it does not weave, eats a bread it does not harvest, and drinks a wine dat flows not from its own wine-press. Pity de nation whose statesman is a fox, whose philosopher is a juggler, and whose art is the art of patching and mimicking. Pity de nation whose sages r dumb wid years and whose strong men r yet in the cradle. Pity de nation divided into fragments, each fragment deeming itself a nation.-KG
The two-day DARE-RC International Education Summit stressed that data, research, and classroom realities must guide education policy in Pakistan.
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal highlighted evidence-based planning and stable leadership as essential for sustainable education reform.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott warned that without quality teaching and strong schools, Pakistan’s children may reach only 41% of their potential.
International experts and development partners emphasised equity, inclusion, and climate resilience as core education priorities.
The summit concluded with a commitment to stronger collaboration between government, universities, and partners to translate research into real classroom impact.
Mahtab Bashir
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
0333 53 63 248
ISLAMABAD: The two-day “International Education Summit 2025” held under the Data and Research in Education, Research Consortium (DARE-RC), concluded with one strong and shared message: Pakistan’s education system can only improve if decisions are guided by facts, research, and real classroom realities.
Organised at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Islamabad, the summit (December 17-18, 2025) brought together policymakers, researchers, and development partners from Pakistan and abroad to talk about how education can become more inclusive, stronger, and fair for every child.
Participants of the DARE-RC International Education Summit gather for a memorable group photo, celebrating collaboration, innovation, and global learning.
Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal stressed that Pakistan cannot reach its development goals without using data and research in education planning. He said policies must be based on evidence so schools can better respond to the needs of children and young people across the country.
Referring to a well-known book The Knowing–Doing Gap: How Smart Companies Turn Knowledge into Action by Stanford University professors Jeffrey Pfeffer and Robert Sutton, published in 2000, Ahsan Iqbal, said, Pakistan must move beyond ideas and focus on action.
He noted that political instability in the country has caused serious setbacks, as frequent changes in governments disrupt continuity and make it difficult for policymakers to carry forward reforms.
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal addresses the summit
Recalling the nuclear tests of May 28, 1998, Iqbal shared a personal interaction with Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan and his team, during which he asked how such a major achievement was made possible. According to him, Dr. AQ Khan explained that the success was built on six core principles: a clear sense of purpose, stable leadership, merit-based systems, investment in human resources, availability of necessary resources, and institutional autonomy.
Federal minister concluded that when these elements are in place, institutions can progress and succeed far more rapidly.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott on the rostrum
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG OBE also pointed to the learning crisis facing many children in Pakistan. She said strong teaching, reliable institutions, and evidence-based decisions are essential, especially to help the most disadvantaged children succeed.
“Many children in Pakistan face the serious risk of achieving only 41 percent of their potential over a full lifetime,” she said.
Abdur Rauf Khan, Country Director, Oxford Policy Management, Pakistan, said, "DARE-RC is a unique initiative that brings together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to share knowledge and experiences. We are proud to be part of this consortium and look forward to continuing our work together to improve education outcomes in Pakistan."
DARE-RC Team Lead Dr Ehtasham Anwar said the summit created an important space for key stakeholders to come together and discuss the major challenges facing education in Pakistan. He added that DARE-RC remains committed to working closely with the government and partners to ensure that evidence is used to shape both policy and practice.
DARE-RC Team Lead Dr. Ehtasham Anwar
Equity and Inclusion Take Priority
The summit opened with a keynote by Professor Kamal Munir from the University of Cambridge, who highlighted the need to put fairness and equity at the centre of education reform. Discussions on the first day focused on issues such as gender gaps, disability inclusion, poverty, and the growing impact of climate change on education.
Experts from the World Bank, UNICEF, Sightsavers, and global universities agreed that Pakistan’s education system must include every learner and be prepared for future challenges.
Turning Research into Real Change
On the second day, attention shifted from ideas to action. Sessions focused on how research can improve teaching, support teachers, and strengthen accountability and governance.
Speakers emphasised the need to move “from evidence to action.” Policymakers from all provinces joined international experts to discuss teacher recruitment, performance monitoring, and system-level reforms that can make a real difference in classrooms.
Universities as Key Partners in Reform
A major takeaway from the closing session was the important role of universities in shaping education reform. Academic leaders shared their commitment to producing research that helps policymakers and to training future leaders who understand both research and practice.
More than 30 research studies supported by DARE-RC were shared, covering inclusion, social justice, teaching quality, education governance, and system resilience.
Working Together for Lasting Impact
In closing remarks, Sam Waldock from the British High Commission highlighted that lasting education reform depends on strong partnerships. Governments, universities, and development partners must work together to turn research into real change.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The summit ended with a shared commitment to build an education system that is fair, inclusive, and guided by evidence.
Journalists pose with Dr. Tariq Banuri
Participants agreed that continued cooperation, investment in research, and close links between policy and practice are key to improving learning outcomes for all children.
Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the DARE-RC programme will continue to support research-led education reform and help shape a better future for education in Pakistan.
· Experts say the real CSS challenge is the huge gap between university learning and exam expectations. · The government’s limited demand for officers keeps the pass rate stuck around 2%. · Language gaps, rote-learning, and outdated curricula leave most candidates unprepared. · Scholars call for bilingual exams, analytical testing, and modernized subject structures. · Systemic decline in education, especially in public institutions, directly fuels low CSS success rates. Mahtab Bashir 0333 53 63 248 mahtabbashir@gmail.com Islamabad
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Central Superior Services (CSS) exam, the highest-tier competitive examination for recruiting bureaucrats into the country’s elite civil service, has consistently recorded a pass rate of barely 2 percent over the last few years, sparking widespread debate among academics, policymakers, and aspirants.
The stubbornly low CSS success rate is now viewed not just as a measure of the exam’s toughness, but as a symptom of deeper cracks within Pakistan’s educational and administrative systems.
In an effort to untangle this complex picture, this scribe reached out to key stakeholders to ask the hard questions: Is the problem rooted in government policy, flawed teaching methods, candidates’ misunderstanding of the exam, the vested interests of preparatory academies, or a broader collapse of the education system itself? The discussions also explored the path ahead and the essential art of mastering this high-stakes examination.
Former Consul General of Barcelona, ambassador, and ex-Director of the Common Training Program at Civil Services Academy, Lahore, Imran Ali, explained that the CSS exam pattern itself is not flawed; the real issue lies in the vast gap between what students learn at the bachelor’s level and the expectations of the exam. For the average student, this gap makes the exam exceptionally challenging.
Imran highlighted that improving CSS pass rates requires high-quality liberal learning. Bachelor’s and master’s programs in liberal arts subjects, such as political science, literature, and economics, etc must reach a high standard before students attempt the exam. In the short term, there is no simple fix. Another approach could be to reduce the exam’s diversity: by making it shorter and more focused on specific subjects, pass rates might improve.
Also Read https://mahtabbashir.blogspot.com/2024/06/imran-ali-chaudhary-champion-of.html
He emphasized that the CSS remains a tough test, largely because its standard sits between BA and MA levels, whereas the quality of undergraduate and graduate programmes has generally declined, making the exam appear harder. Also, the exam’s breadth adds to the difficulty: candidates must cover Current Affairs, Pakistan Affairs, Islamiyat, English language and literature, three optional subjects, and even Everyday Science, making it extremely diverse and demanding.
Dr. Muhammad Mubeen, Tenured Associate Professor of Humanities at COMSATS University Islamabad, explained that CSS pass rates are largely dictated by percentiles rather than absolute scores. He noted that government demand for officers is limited each year, as retirements dictate the number of new recruits. This means FPSC often aims to qualify only the top 5–10% of candidates, regardless of whether 500 or 700 appear fit. Many candidates fail in key subjects, English Essay, English Precis and Composition, Islamic Studies, or Urdu, while elective subjects generally see high pass rates. The decision to include or exclude a candidate often depends on the paper checker’s discretion, guided by instructions to keep the overall pass ratio low.
Dr. Mubeen emphasized that the small fraction of candidates who do pass, around 30–35 annually, are mostly from modest backgrounds, with a few from influential families, reflecting a carefully controlled induction process. The government typically requires only 150–160 candidates, so the 2% pass rate aligns with demand. If the need were larger, pass rates could easily be increased.
He described CSS as a high-pressure competency exam, with factors such as hard work, analytical ability, time management, luck, and the quota system all influencing outcomes. The exam’s intensity stems from having multiple papers in a single day and managing limited government slots.
Dr. Mubeen concluded that while the CSS exam is challenging, its strict passing ratio is a reflection of controlled demand and systemic design rather than arbitrary failure.
Dr. Ilhan Niaz, professor of history at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, contextualised the challenge by comparing it with China, which has the world’s oldest tradition of competitive public service recruitment. “Today, between 3 and 3.7 million candidates compete for 35,000–40,000 posts in China’s civil service exam, translating to 80–100 qualified candidates per post,” he said.
By contrast, Pakistan’s 2024 CSS written examination saw 15,600 candidates appear, with only 387 clearing the written stage and 229 finally allocated to services, roughly 68 candidates per post. Considering fewer than 7,000 CSS officers are in service at any time, Dr. Niaz believes Pakistan’s applicant-to-selection ratio is still reasonable.
Low Educational Standards and Language Barriers
Dr. Niaz highlighted that the real hurdle lies in Pakistan’s education system. “The quality of education, especially in public-sector schools, is insufficient to prepare students for competitive exams,” he explained.
He also pointed to the English-language requirement as a barrier that disqualifies many capable candidates. “Improving overall education is a long-term task, but the language barrier can be addressed immediately. Introducing bilingual exams (Urdu/English) for all papers and interviews, except for outward-facing services like Foreign Service or Commerce Group, is feasible and necessary,” he argued.
Rethinking Exam Structure
Dr. Niaz criticized the CSS system’s overreliance on rote learning. He suggested that most compulsory subjects should be removed, retaining only general knowledge/current affairs and a basic aptitude test. Optional subjects, he argued, should focus on analytical thinking and problem-solving, possibly conducted as open-book exams from specified texts. “The goal is to recruit officers who can think critically, reason through problems, and communicate clearly,” he said.
He also stressed the need for robust psychological screening, pointing out that many recruits quickly conform to group pressures in the bureaucracy, compromising ethics. “Academic brilliance alone is insufficient if it is used to harm citizens or serve unlawful interests,” he said.
Structural and Academic Challenges
Raza Bashir Tarar, former bureaucrat, ambassador, and foreign services officer, stated that Pakistan’s low CSS pass rates result from a combination of systemic, socio-economic, and exam-specific challenges.
He noted that years of rote-learning leave students with weak analytical and critical thinking skills, while the sudden shift to advanced English in the exams exposes a language gap. Uneven preparation in core subjects like Pakistan Affairs, Current Affairs, and Essay further disadvantages candidates, particularly those in rural areas with limited access to libraries and expert guidance. He added that coaching centres often emphasize memorized notes over skill development, and challenging sections like the Essay and English Précis filter out most aspirants.
Tarar suggested that introducing analytical writing courses, standardized English instruction, a National CSS Preparatory Framework, expanded digital resources, and a nationwide Digital CSS Academy could help bridge these gaps and improve pass rates without compromising standards.
He also noted that the number of applicants and those who actually sit for the exam fluctuates significantly from year to year, with around 18,000 applying in 2025 but only about 12,800 appearing. The consistent low pass percentage, which rarely exceeds 3%, underscores the rigorous and selective nature of CSS.
Tarar elaborated that the high competition, coupled with the narrow gate for success, means that only a few candidates become civil servants through CSS, despite intense preparation. He also emphasized that clearing the written exam is just the first hurdle, and aspirants must clear multiple stages, requiring long-term preparation and resilience.
Ultimately, the systemic selectivity of CSS ensures that those who succeed come from a small, elite pool, influencing the continuity and authority within the bureaucracy.
Systemic Decline in Education
Dr. Munawar Hussain of the Area Study Centre at Quaid-i-Azam University argued that CSS failures mirror a broader decline in Pakistan’s education system. “Once limited to peripheral regions, educational deterioration is now evident in major cities including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Quetta,” he said.
Dr. Munawar highlighted the dominance of private institutions, concentrating talent within a small section of society, while public-sector institutions have deteriorated, and accountability has been largely ignored. Underfunding has further weakened research output and library facilities, leaving students ill-prepared. He also criticized the prevailing approach of promoting teachers on the basis of research rather than teaching effectiveness, which discourages graduates from pursuing academia.
He pointed out that CSS results were better when eligibility required a simple BA. The shift to a four-year BS programme, influenced by Western systems, has contributed to a drop in pass rates to just 1.5–2%.
Prof. Dr. Syed Habib Ali Bokhari, former vice chancellor of Kohsar University Murree, highlighted key reasons behind Pakistan’s persistently low CSS pass rates. He observed that many students emerge from rote-learning environments, lacking critical thinking, analytical writing, and reasoning skills, especially in Essay, English, and Current Affairs papers.
Dr. Bokhari pointed out that the fragmented education system worsens the issue: public-sector schools rarely align with CSS demands, university syllabi are outdated, and teachers often lack training in modern pedagogical methods like Bloom’s Taxonomy and inquiry-based learning. Rural and low-income candidates face additional hurdles, including limited access to libraries, newspapers, digital resources, and mentorship, compounded by weak English proficiency and poor time management during exams.
He recommended integrating subjects such as data interpretation, evidence-based reasoning, analytical writing, governance, and contemporary sciences into the curriculum, emphasizing that a systemic overhaul could potentially raise CSS success rates above 5%.
Dr. Mariam Anees, Professor of Biochemistry at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, highlighted that a lack of strong analytical and writing skills remains a key barrier for CSS aspirants.
She observed that while graduates may shine in technical subjects, the exam demands sharp reasoning and effective expression, abilities seldom cultivated in current degree programs. Years are often wasted memorizing facts instead of honing smart strategies and writing proficiency.
Language Barriers and Curriculum Gaps
Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali Shah, resonated concerns regarding English. “A large majority of CSS candidates fail in English, particularly in Essay and Précis & Composition,” he said.
Dr. Shah argued that English should not be compulsory, as many capable students fail solely due to language proficiency. He suggested offering candidates a choice of language courses, noting that advanced English is not essential in several professional roles.
Former Dean of Social Sciences at Quaid-i-Azam University, Prof. Dr. Nazir Hussain, linked declining CSS performance to broader flaws in education policy. He explained that the mismatch between university standards and FPSC requirements, particularly after the shift to BS and MS programmes, has deepened the problem.
Dr. Hussain stressed that reforms must focus on raising eligibility standards to 16 years of education, bridging the language gap, and ensuring that policies do not favour the elite or influential groups.
Recent Policy Reform: Age and Attempt Relaxation
In May 2025, the National Assembly passed a resolution raising the CSS age limit from 30 to 35 years and expanding allowed exam attempts from three to five. Moved by PML-N lawmaker Nosheen Iftikhar, the resolution was widely welcomed by civil service aspirants struggling under strict eligibility constraints.
The development came after the 2024 CSS results, where only 395 out of 15,602 candidates passed, marking a success rate of 2.53 percent. While the measure provides relief, experts insist that it addresses only a minor part of the problem.
Calls for Comprehensive Reform
Professor Dr. Tahir Jamil of the Area Study Centre, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad praised the age and attempt relaxation but stressed that deeper reforms are essential. He criticised overreliance on CSS academies and emphasised a modern, evolving syllabus with greater specialisation. “Outdated teaching methods, rote learning, and excessive dependence on guides undermine creativity and weaken communication skills, especially in English,” he said.
Experts collectively warn that CSS results are symptomatic of a broader crisis. Weak analytical foundations, poor reading habits, and outdated learning environments leave candidates ill-prepared despite their determination.
Educationists argue that without reforming both the CSS preparation framework and Pakistan’s education system, administrative reforms alone will not bridge the gap. As a result, the country’s future bureaucracy continues to face challenges in recruiting competent, ethical, and analytically capable officers.
The CSS exam, long considered the gateway to Pakistan’s elite civil service, highlights the systemic weaknesses of the country’s education and administrative framework.
While recent policy tweaks, including age relaxation and additional attempts, offer temporary relief to aspirants, experts agree that meaningful change requires deep-rooted reforms, from improving foundational learning, teacher training, and curriculum quality to redesigning the exam structure and introducing ethical and psychological evaluations.
Without such measures, the aspirants’ ambitions and the nation’s bureaucratic efficiency may continue to suffer under the weight of structural neglect and outdated practices.
Saeed Ahmed Minhas, a veteran journalist and educationist, argues that the current entire system requires a fundamental overhaul. He points out that the very structure was designed by colonial masters who never implemented it in their own countries; it was crafted solely to produce a loyal cadre of civil servants to serve the Crown.
Today, however, this system has devolved into a tool for Kingmakers, churning out compliant bureaucrats who rarely question authority. Merit and competence are sidelined, numbers and credentials matter little to those in power, who are more concerned with loyalty than talent.
Yet, as Minhas notes, numbers don't matter to these dwarfs who care not about who deserves and who not. At least the flaws are now documented, providing a record for future reformers to consider.
On November 10, 2025, Pakistan lost two brilliant minds, Arfa Sayeda Zehra and Irfan Siddiqui, who dedicated their lives to education, language, history and society. Both intellectual giants and passionate advocates for Urdu, they inspired with their humility and soft-spoken wisdom. Their words resounded deeply, leaving lasting impressions on all who listened. A loss of such influential figures creates an irreplaceable void, but their legacy will endure in the knowledge they shared and the countless lives they touched.
Dr. Arfa Sayeda Zehra, the eminent Pakistani educationist, intellectual, and human rights advocate, passed away on November 10, 2025, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of scholarly excellence and tireless activism. Her passing marks the end of an era for the academic and social fabric of Pakistan.
After completing her early education at Lahore College for Women University and Government College University in Lahore, she pursued further studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where she earned a Master of Arts in Asian Studies and a Doctorate in History. Her ground-breaking dissertation on Sir Sayyid Ahmad Khan, "Man with a Mission", is an evidence to her deep commitment to understanding South Asian intellectual history.
Dr. Zehra’s academic career was marked by a series of ground-breaking roles, including serving as the principal of Lahore College for Women University, the Government College for Women, and as a professor emeritus at Forman Christian College.
Over the years, as I hungrily studied language, two voices have guided me like stars: Arfa Sayeda Zehra and Sashi Tharoor. Both tease and sculpt words with such deftness that listening becomes a feast for the soul. ASZ, raised her voice not to roar, but to summons society to its better self. An educationist, a professor emeritus, a tireless human rights advocate, she wore many lights at once, and they burned with uncommon grace. Her departure left a void so deep it altered the geography of our generations. Gen Y, Gen Z, and the years that follow still feel the tremor of her absence, as if a compass has been laid down in unrecoverable distance.
She was a passionate advocate for the Urdu language, emphasizing its importance for the nation’s cultural identity. Known for her expertise in intellectual history, South Asian social issues, and gender equality, Dr. Zehra played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s academic discourse. She also held significant public offices, including the chairmanship of the National Commission on the Status of Women and as a former caretaker provincial minister of Punjab.
Beyond academia, Dr. Zehra's voice was heard at language conferences, televised forums, and in forums advocating for gender equity and the rights of women. A tireless supporter of the literary and intellectual development of Pakistan, her work has left an indelible impact on both the education sector and the broader cultural landscape. She was also a recipient of the prestigious University of Hawaii’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2016.
Dr. Zehra’s passing is not only a loss for the academic community but for all those who championed the causes she so passionately advocated. Her dedication to education, her fight for female equity, and her unwavering commitment to the rights of the marginalized will remain her enduring legacy.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui, a towering figure in Pakistan's political and journalistic circles, passed away on November 10, 2025, at the age of 68 after battling severe respiratory complications. His death, following a two-week hospitalization, marks the end of a career that spanned decades, during which he played an instrumental role in Pakistan’s politics.
Late Irfan Siddiqui in discussions with the late President Rafiq Tarar and my late father, BHN
Irfan Siddiqui stood as a steady beacon, steering Pakistan through its fiercest storms with quiet resolve. From shaping national affairs to guiding Senate debates, his loyal badge shone, a proof to a life spent in service, leaving a charity of memories that ache with his absence. May his enduring legacy live in the causes he championed and the example he set, a seasoned leader who faced turmoil with dignity and a steadfast heart.
Siddiqui was a senior member of the Pakistan Muslim League (N) and served as a Senator for Punjab, holding significant positions such as Parliamentary Party Leader and Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs. His close ties with the Sharif family, especially his advisory role to Nawaz Sharif, cemented his influence in the party and government.
A file photo of this scribe with Senator Irfan Siddiqui
Beyond his political career, Siddiqui was a prolific writer, with his book, PTI and Pakistan: From Cypher to Final Call, offering critical insights into Pakistan's political crises. However, his final days were surrounded by controversy, with reports suggesting he was kept on life support during the Senate's controversial passage of the 27th Constitutional Amendment, a matter that continues to spark debate.
Despite the controversies, Siddiqui's legacy as a dedicated party loyalist, political reformer, and thoughtful commentator will endure in Pakistan’s history.
* Dr. Babar championed private schools as the backbone of Pakistan’s education system, driving excellence in student achievement * Beyond his professional contributions, Dr. Babar personally sponsored numerous students, ensuring that financial barriers never stood in the way of their educational dreams * Even after health challenges, Dr. Babar's tireless advocacy for educational rights continued, marking the end of an era of genuine struggle for the future of private institutions
Dr. Muhammad Afzal Babar, a renowned educationist and the founding president of the Private Schools Network (PSN) Islamabad, passed away in the wee hours of Thursday, October 23, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to education and the rights of private educational institutions. His funeral was held at the Bhara Kahu graveyard in Islamabad, where hundreds of mourners, including educational leaders, political figures, and local citizens, gathered to pay their final respects.
For decades, Dr. Babar was a passionate advocate for the promotion of education and the protection of private schools, particularly those that served lower-income communities. Under his visionary leadership, PSN Islamabad became a beacon of support for countless teachers and students, providing a robust platform for growth and progress in the private education sector. His untimely passing has left a void in the education community, as colleagues and students alike remember him not only as a gentle teacher but as a tireless spokesperson for education.
Zafar Sipra, President of the Federal Education Reporters Association (FERA), Islamabad, expressed his deep sorrow, describing Dr. Babar as the “champion of education.” He recalled how Dr. Babar fervently believed that education was the only key to a nation’s prosperity and fought relentlessly for the rights of private educational institutions.
Despite the financial constraints faced by these schools, Dr. Babar always emphasized that they were the backbone of the education system, shouldering a significant portion of the responsibility to enroll students and provide quality education. He often pointed out that private institutions, while underfunded, continued to outperform government schools, producing top-ranking students in national exams.
Zaigham Naqvi, Chairman FERA and a seasoned journalist, praised Dr. Afzal Babar as a remarkable educationist. "He was a staunch advocate for low-fee private educational institutions, tirelessly battling legal challenges with higher authorities on their behalf," he said. "May Allah Almighty grant him forgiveness."
Shahbaz Qureshi, Information Secretary of FERA and a journalist, expressed his shock at Dr. Babar's passing, saying, "Every time we attended an education event, Dr. Babar was always there, leading the charge. His commitment to promoting education was unwavering, and he dedicated his entire life to the cause. Just months ago, FERA lost another senior member, Masood Malik, and now, with Dr. Babar's loss, we are left in deep shock. May both of their souls find eternal peace."
Dr. Babar’s commitment to education extended beyond his professional work; he personally sponsored the education of many children, ensuring that financial barriers did not prevent them from pursuing their dreams. His contributions to the education sector were not limited to his own institutions but spread across the community, as he generously supported various causes and initiatives aimed at uplifting underprivileged students.
Dr. Babar had a deep fondness for FERA and its members. Whenever we reached out to him, he would always suggest, "Let’s meet soon over dinner or lunch and chat about this, and the many other challenges facing the education sector."
Throughout his life, Dr. Babar remained an advocate for smaller educational institutions, especially those in the private sector, fighting for their recognition and fair treatment in the face of government indifference. He firmly believed that these institutions played a vital role in relieving the burden on public schools and ensuring a brighter future for the nation’s children.
His unwavering commitment to education continued even after he suffered a severe cardiac arrest several months ago. Despite his health challenges, Dr. Babar resumed his national work, tirelessly fighting for educational rights and serving as a governing member of the Pakistan Scouts Association. His personal dedication and love for education were unparalleled, and his passing marks the end of an era of genuine struggle for the rights of smaller private educational institutions.
Dr. Afzal Babar’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the transformative impact he had on Pakistan’s education system. His vision and tireless work for educational reform will be remembered for years to come.
Malala Yousafzai’s upcoming memoir, Finding My Way, reveals deeply personal insights into her secret relationship with now-husband, Asser Malik, during her time at Oxford University. The memoir, set for release on October 21, takes readers behind the scenes of a love story that was kept hidden from both the public and Malala's family due to cultural and familial expectations.
Malala recalls the secrecy surrounding their budding romance, describing how she and Asser would navigate their time together, including private meetings and wardrobe changes to avoid suspicion. She reminisces about one particular moment when she swapped her modest shalwar kameez for a pink, sleeveless dress. "When I returned to the table, Asser sat up straight, his mouth broke into a smile I hadn’t seen before,” Malala writes. “He whispered, ‘You’re a sex bomb!'"
Malala posing with her husband
However, the romance wasn’t without its challenges. Malala’s family, particularly her mother, strongly disapproved of the relationship, partly due to Asser not meeting the expectations of a Pashtun suitor. "Absolutely not! Does he even speak Pashto? She must marry a Pashtun man!" her mother reportedly exclaimed. The pressure from her family became so intense that Malala even asked Asser if they could "pause" their feelings until after she finished her studies. To which, Asser responded, “I’m not sure feelings work that way. But, for you, I’m willing to try."
Despite the tension, their commitment to each other remained strong. Nearly four years after their intimate wedding in Birmingham, Malala is offering fans a rare and heartfelt look at their journey, including the obstacles they faced in keeping their love private.
In addition to exploring her romance with Asser, Finding My Way digs into Nobel Laureate Malala’s self-discovery journey at Oxford, documenting her triumphs, struggles, and the resilience she built in the face of adversity. The memoir promises to be a deeply revealing and powerful account of her life, one that showcases her continued evolution, not just as a global advocate for girls’ education but also as a woman navigating love, family conflict, and personal growth.
A multi-city book tour will follow the release, where Malala will share her experiences of love, family, and resilience with readers across the world. Finding My Way will be available on October 21.
The United Nations has cracked the case behind the sudden halt of an escalator, right after none other than President Donald Trump stepped onto it. The culprit? Apparently, a videographer’s accidental push of a safety feature turned the escalator into a stationary monument.
During his speech to the world’s leaders on September 23, Trump took the incident in stride, quipping, “These are the two things I got from the United Nations: a bad escalator and a bad teleprompter,” eliciting chuckles from the assembly. Who knew international diplomacy could be so... escalator-ly amusing?
Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt took a more serious tone, warning that if someone at the UN deliberately stopped the escalator to embarrass the President, they should be promptly fired and investigated. Because nothing says “diplomatic decorum” like a suspiciously halted escalator.
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric explained that the escalator’s central processing unit had a built-in safety mechanism that kicked in when a comb step was triggered at the top, likely by Trump’s videographer, who was busy filming the President’s grand entrance while moving backwards up the escalator. Apparently, in the quest for the perfect shot, the videographer accidentally pressed the “pause” button on safety.
As for the teleprompter troubles, Trump joked that whoever was operating it was “in big trouble,” though the UN clarified that the White House was using its own teleprompter, so perhaps the real culprit remains at large.
In the end, UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock assured everyone, “The UN teleprompters are working perfectly,” leaving the world to wonder if perhaps the real comedy was happening behind the scenes all along. Trump Blames Pills, Science Blames the Script
A day earlier, President Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took the stage to deliver a blockbuster announcement that left the medical community scratching their heads, and the public wondering if they had accidentally tuned into a parody.
Video Courtesy BBC
The duo declared that paracetamol, the humble over-the-counter hero known as Tylenol, might be secretly plotting to cause autism when used during pregnancy. Yes, you read that right. The medication, which has been safely trusted by millions for decades, was suddenly cast as a villain in a drama with no script, no evidence, and certainly no scientific backing.
During a White House press conference that felt more like a stand-up routine, President Trump urged pregnant women to “fight like hell not to take” Tylenol, unless, of course, they’re battling a very high fever. His advice, candidly admitted to be based on personal opinion rather than science, was followed by a swift directive to the FDA to slap warning labels on the drug, warning of a supposed link that experts say doesn’t exist.
Adding fuel to the fire, the administration announced plans to fast-track approval for leucovorin as an autism treatment, despite limited evidence, because who needs facts when you have bold claims? The president also threw in unverified assertions about vaccines and autism, turning the press conference into a veritable carnival of conjecture.
The scientific community responded with the speed of a well-oiled machine, condemning the statements as “irresponsible” and “dangerous.” Major organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, reminded everyone that Tylenol remains the safest pain relief for pregnant women, emphasizing that untreated fevers can be more harmful than a hypothetical autism risk.
Experts pointed out that while some observational studies have flirted with the idea of a link, they don’t prove causation, kind of like saying eating ice cream causes rain because they both happen in summer. Larger, more rigorous studies have found no such connection, especially when considering other factors like parental neurodivergence.
The World Health Organization chimed in, urging caution and reminding everyone that science is a process, not a guessing game. Meanwhile, Kenvue, Tylenol’s manufacturer, issued a firm statement: “Sound science clearly shows that taking acetaminophen does not cause autism,” adding that the real danger lies in avoiding necessary treatment and risking dangerous fevers.
This episode highlights President Trump’s penchant for making sweeping statements that often outpace the facts, sometimes turning serious health topics into a comedy of errors. As the public navigates this whirlwind of claims, one thing remains clear: when it comes to science, it’s best to stick with the experts, and perhaps keep the Tylenol close, just in case.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Universities as Key Partners in Reform
