Always value freedom, concentrate on your studies and try to acquire knowledge of science and technology – that, in a nutshell, was the message given to children at a function organised by the Hamdard Naunehal Assembly Karachi chapter on Sunday.
The function was arranged on the subject of “Defence of Homeland and Education” in connection with the Defence Day of Pakistan.
It was presided over by Hamdard Foundation Pakistan President Sadia Rashid and included children’s speeches, tableau and national songs.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest of the event and former Sindh governor Lt Gen (retd) Moinuddin Haider said that Pakistan’s armed forces can defend the country against any foreign aggression but the real threat to its safety and solidarity comes from within.
“Extremism, terrorism, sectarianism, street crimes, extortion and targeted killings are rampant in the country, particular in Karachi,” he added.
He pointed out that no country can progress or defend itself without education and knowledge. “Education without training, particularly about morals, is not useful because it only gives information and does not build the character of students,” he said.
“Pakistan is a lucky country as it has a large population of young people who are 15 years of age. As there is a shortage of young people in Japan, it is forced to set up its factories in other countries. We are not utilising the tremendous manpower of our young people.”
Haider suggested that Pakistan needs to impart vocational education and training to its youths and send them to foreign countries as overseas Pakistanis are annually sending home up to $13 billion in remittances.
“We should also make big dams to save our villages from rains and floods, store huge water and generate electricity.”
Sadia Rashid in her speech said that it is the foremost duty of all Pakistanis to safeguard their homeland and make it stronger, safer and more disciplined so that they can live in peace without any danger.
She also praised the role of the armed forces. “Our armed forces are not only defending the frontiers of the country with courage and boldness, but also playing an important role as UN peacekeepers in other countries,” she said.
