Growing extremism

It is highly unfortunate and alarming that educated individuals are leaning towards extremism. Even though Noureen had a very intellectual background, her inclination towards militancy is a question in itself. The growing sense of intolerance prevailing among students as seen in the Mashal Khan case and the recent act of violence in Punjab University puts forward questions regarding the role of our educational institutes. We need to address our shortcomings.

Why are educated individuals losing tolerance and developing extremist ideas? Education is not merely going to an institute and gaining knowledge regarding a specific area of study, but it shapes the way a person thinks and behaves. It moulds one’s personality and character. The idea of terrorism and extremism is generally associated with people who are unable to or incapable of judging the difference between what is right and what is wrong but recent events have proved this wrong. We are in dire need to introduce a course like critical thinking in our educational institutes. Educational institutes need to keep a check on the activities of students and should introduce character-building classes. It will keep our ‘angry young generation’ calm.

Hadiqa Mahboob

Lahore