By Zaara Kashmiri
In a decisive cabinet meeting chaired by Central Chairman Engr. Sarfaraz Hussain, the Karakoram Students Organization has laid out a bold set of reforms to address the pressing educational crisis and economic challenges facing Gilgit-Baltistan.
Addressing the Educational Crisis
Recent exam results have painted a grim picture for the region’s educational system, with nearly 70% of students failing. This alarming statistic underscores systemic issues and what many believe to be governmental indifference. "The current state of our education system is not only jeopardizing our youth's future but also stifling regional development," said Engr. Hussain. The organization stands in full support of the recent student movement in Diamer and demands immediate government intervention to resolve the crisis.
Key Resolutions from the Meeting
The meeting culminated in a series of resolutions designed to overhaul the educational framework and boost local opportunities:
- Mandatory
Enrollment in Government Schools:
Children of government employees and teachers should be enrolled exclusively in government schools. This move is expected to improve transparency and overall performance within the public education system.
- Establishment
of a Gilgit-Baltistan Textbook Board:
The current curriculum fails to reflect the unique historical, cultural, and geographical identity of the region. The organization calls for the creation of a local textbook board and the inclusion of a curriculum titled "Study Karakoram (Gilgit-Baltistan)" to replace the generic "Study Pakistan."
- Creation
of Medical and Engineering Colleges:
Recognizing the dearth of higher education institutions, the organization demands the immediate establishment of medical and engineering colleges to provide quality education and specialized career paths.
- Fee
Exemption at Key Universities:
In view of the region's disputed status, the organization insists that fee waivers be granted for students attending Karakoram International University and Baltistan University, thus broadening access to higher education.
- Reevaluation
and Re-examination of Exams:
The organization calls for an urgent review of the current examination results, followed by re-examinations for primary and middle school students to ensure fairness and justice.
- Opposition
to Privatization:
The Karakoram Students Organization has firmly opposed any move toward the privatization of government schools, emphasizing that education should remain a public service rather than a profit-making venture.
- Conversion
of PTDC Hotels into Intermediate Colleges:
In response to the recent transfer of PTDC hotels to the Green Tourism Company, the organization demands that these facilities be repurposed into intermediate colleges, meeting the immediate educational needs of the region.
- Enhancing
Youth Employment Opportunities:
The resolution outlines measures to create job opportunities in sectors such as tourism, mining, and border trade. Additionally, the organization calls for the removal of the illegal 50 lakh bank statement requirement for China Border Passes to facilitate freer trade.
- Local
Recruitment at Diamer-Bhasha Dam:
The organization emphasizes that recruitment for the Diamer-Bhasha Dam project should prioritize local talent from Gilgit-Baltistan, especially from Diamer, to spur local economic development.
A Call for Immediate Government Action
The Karakoram Students Organization has declared its unwavering commitment to securing educational rights and expanding employment opportunities for the youth of Gilgit-Baltistan. "We urge the government to act swiftly in implementing these reforms, ensuring that our youth are equipped with the skills and opportunities necessary for a prosperous future," Engr. Hussain stated.
This resounding call for change has resonated throughout the region, with many viewing it as a critical step toward sustainable development and empowerment in Gilgit-Baltistan.
