A wish for Pakistan, A wish for myself

As the nation is about to celebrate the 135th birthday of Quaid e Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, many initiatives are being carried out for commemorating the day. One such initiative is taken by Dawn Newspaper where people are invited to the forum to participate in "Tell us, tell the Quaid" discussion.The least I could do was to think of a competitive strategy for Pakistan, I find the idea and material in the brainstorming and thought provoking exercises conducted by the honorable teacher Dr. Farid A. Malik during our academic program.

Quaid e Azam M.A. Jinnah

Pakistan has a geostrategic location, rich with natural resources. The current situation of Pakistan is very critical. The country has the greatest proportion of youth population and it has traveled 63 years with a consistent problem of political leadership. This translated itself in the institutional structures and became the basis for indifferent citizens. Religious institutions got misused and fundamentalism and militancy strengthened.

In such a scenario competitive strategy for Pakistan shall primarily focus on youth development programs. Its investment in education sector will be a building block for the nation’s development. This shall include reaching out for the rural populations, reforms and improvement in technical education and development of uniform curriculum that encourages critical, intellectual and conceptual thinking.

Furthermore, institutions like Scouting and students’ political bodies shall be extensively launched. The blend of well designed practical approach curriculum will produce well informed political thinking. Moreover, scouting will help in cultural, religious and ethnical interaction to saw the seed of pluralism in the hearts and minds of the youth. This will address today’s religious fundamentalism, extremist religious rhetoric and ‘winning the heart and mind of peoples’ issue.

The next level strategy shall focus on exploration and utilization of the natural resources within our country. From natural resources I mean the fertile soil, fuel, water, fruits, gem stone and others. There are several coal mines including the Thar coal mine to be efficiently utilized as fuel source. Water is not scarce in Pakistan, but lack of proper planning cause draughts and floods in case of fluctuation of its flow. So dams and systematic control of water from macro to micro level will not only save water but also improve agriculture, stop or reduce the effect of natural disasters related to it. Health issues will also get under control.

The third competitive strategy for Pakistan could be suggested as transforming its foreign policy to have flexible and diplomatic relations with all its neighboring counties. This should include acting as a gateway for central Asian countries for trade through the sea routes. Also, it will be in the favor of Pakistan to create genuine bilateral relations with India. Pakistan could open the doors for investment and business for India and advance in technology instead of military advancements.

Pakisatan

To conclude, the youth of Pakistan in this turbulent time are the asset as well as liability of the state. Investment in them will automatically translate itself into skillful, enlightened and tolerating leaders. Pakistan will be a model for pluralism and peace rather than terrorist labeled state. Our focus on the strategic location and its invaluable resources can help us grow the business activities by providing opportunities for investment, and industries like the tourism industry to flourish. 

I wish to be part of the team for railing back Pakistan on the track of prosperity and peace. My wish on the Quaid's birthday.