RIYADH, 31 May 2004 — Several academic committees have been formed to evaluate syllabi in various disciplines in Pakistani universities. This has been done to assess their needs and to promote research-oriented projects, a senior academic said at a recent meeting here.
"However, much has to be done to improve the standard of education and discipline among students," Karachi University Vice Chancellor Qasim Raza Pirzada said.
Pirzada and Omar Sharif, a poet and comedian, were guests of honor at a Pakistan Day function organized by Pakistan Cultural Group (PCG). Pakistani Ambassador Abdul Aziz Mirza chaired the meeting, which was conducted by PCG Secretary General Abdul Hameed. Pirzada, also a poet, recited his poetry. "The country will remain strong if you're strong in your conviction and committed to the service of the nation," he said.
He underlined the need for eradicating illiteracy and suggested making education compulsory for every child. "Only then we can prosper and progress," he said expressing his optimism that more funds would be provided for education.
"The present government has been offering liberal financial grants to education, which are being transparently and objectively utilized," he added.
Education in Pakistan is not available to a large number of children. There are over 44 million illiterate adults in Pakistan, with female literacy at 27.9 percent. The student-teacher ratio stands at 66:1.
