My kids study at a local private sector school. Recently the school has introduced computers in classroom for all grades. Where I was appreciative of the step taken towards improving learning experience it also reminded me of my times in school. But disturbing was the sudden realization that majority of schools, both private and state-run, are still far behind. The steep difference in learning experience, quality of education translates into unequal distribution of opportunities to children.
Education continues to remain an underserved national responsibility of Pakistan. Some 7 million to 10.5 million children are out of school in Pakistan. Majority of those attending school are not learning in a satisfactory manner. What is most discomforting is the fact that despite availability of technology services like broadband internet the true potential for learning and education is not being tapped. It was good to see a national company like PTCL addressing the educational emergency facing Pakistan by coming up with an e-learning program to provide better educational opportunities to students. Other technology companies should also follow suit by offering tailored e-learning solutions. I see kids on internet every so often and I wish to see them use such facilities to receive quality education.
IFTIKHAR GUL
Rawalpindi
