Shadows of Lyari Town: A Tale of Street Power and Media
In the shadowy alleys of Lyari Town, a neighborhood in Karachi survives with its history of culture and resilience. Dictated with its stories of gritty street life, identity, and the ubiquitous influences of organized crime. Today the Gangs of Lyari hide in the shadows yet their fear lurks at every corner. The gangs have woven themselves into the multi-colored fabric of the community, depicting the careful portrait of the struggle to survive while balancing the dark intricacies of power.
Privatization of Government Schools in the Suffocating Educational System of Pakistan
Protests over the government’s decision to privatize schools have erupted across Pakistan, a nation already grappling with the world’s second-largest population of out-of-school children.
The interim Punjab government initially dismissed the news as a rumor, but details about the schools slated for privatization had already been released.
This essay explores the prospects of privatizing government schools, highlighting why it may not be the opportune time for Pakistan and suggesting alternative measures until the country is better prepared.
Seeking Rights: The Story of Gilgit Baltistan
Gilgit Baltistan, a region in Pakistan, is celebrated for its natural wonders, including the world’s second-largest non-polar glacier. Despite its strategic significance, the area has faced persistent challenges. The constitutional status of Gilgit Baltistan has been contentious since its inception, with the local population advocating for greater autonomy.
The Origin of Zip & Postal Codes in Pakistan
Sadia Iqbal delves into the significance and history of postal codes. Postal codes, often used interchangeably with zip codes in Pakistan, have evolved significantly since the 19th century. Since the British rule until today, Pakistan’s postal system has continued to modernize, marking the relevance of postal services and codes in an era dominated by digital communication.
Foreshadowing: Venezuela and Guyana Conflict
Venezuela and Guyana, countries situated in Latin America, may encounter the probable escalation of a land dispute into a military confrontation. Venezuela claims the Essequibo region that currently lies within the boundaries of Guyana.
In 1841, Venezuela disputed British control of the Essequibo region, objecting to the Schomburgk Line. The conflict arose over territorial boundaries and escalated with British claims fueled by a gold discovery. The dispute resurfaced again but as both countries are committed to asserting national sovereignty over the disputed territory, the lack of military action indicates their reluctance to intervene.
Jinnah’s Pakistan: A Professional Approach to Good Governance
What does it take for a country to prosper? Good leadership. It’s unfortunate, however, that competent leadership has always been beyond Pakistan’s reach.
Dr Sadiq Ali states the criteria—one in line with the Quran, the constitution, and the two founders—that he would like the next leader of Pakistan to meet.
Paradigm Shift’s Magazine: December 2023 Edition
The December 2023 edition of the Paradigm Shift magazine contains 12 handpicked pieces.
The last edition of 2023 covers everything important that has happened in the last year.
From Israel’s war on Gaza to the military coups in Africa, 2023 has been characterised by instability and genocides.
Freemasonry’s “Jadoo Ghar” Once Existed in Pakistan
The Freemasons, an enigmatic and often myth-shrouded organization, have sparked curiosity in the people of Pakistan. Unknown to most, Pakistan was home to several Freemasonry lodges, and even though the organization has been banned since 1972, traces of its existence can still be found in the country.
What to Expect from the 2024 Taiwan Elections?
China’s growing influence around the world and its emergence as the rising superpower of the globe has inflicted fear in the people of Taiwan who have presidential elections on 13th January.
The major presidential contenders, along with an increasing majority of Taiwan’s population, reject the idea of Chinese governance. However, distinct differences among these parties may result in significantly diverse political landscapes.
Forced Conversions and Religious Chauvinism in Pakistan
Pakistan remains a country invariably enveloped in religious chauvinism. Sadaf Shabbir analyzes the phenomenon of forced conversions against minorities, and how this has become a weapon for those who want to reiterate their religious supremacy.
Additionally, the plague of forced conversions and forced marriages is not just confined to religious supremacy but has something significant where men’s criminal actions are justified because of the prevalent sense of impunity based on both religion and gender.
Enabling Innovative and Research-Driven Education for All in Pakistan
Duaa Ayaz discusses the need for Pakistan to revamp its education system and adopt a research and outcome-oriented hybrid educational model to bridge the gap between the curriculum and 21st century demands.
The education system in Pakistan is outdated and fails to equip students with the modern requisites, subsequently increasing unemployment.
The state must enable education by fostering public-private partnerships, increasing vocational training, and promoting mental health initiatives at school level.
The Education Crisis in Pakistan
The article is a heartfelt, fact-based, and thought-provoking take on the current education system in Pakistan and how we can reform it.
Aalia Khan draws conclusions from her own experiences as well as the statistics about education and all the factors impacted by education.
Some of the harsh truths that she presents are realities most Pakistanis will find hard to acknowledge. However, the focus is brought on how we must have a thorough understanding of the long-standing problems in order to devise a solution that could truly work.
Narco-Terrorism: Exploring Hezbollah’s Drug Trafficking Rings
Hezbollah stands out as one of the most dangerous terrorist organizations, funded significantly by drug trafficking. The partnership between drug smuggling criminals and terrorists poses a growing threat to global security.
The interconnected nature of these challenges requires a united effort to address the complex issue of drug smuggling and its implications for international security.
Transgender Act of 2018: Criticisms and Concerns
The Transgender Act 2018 in Pakistan has been subject to numerous criticisms and shortcomings, revealing several areas where improvements are needed. Ranging from ineffective implementation and inadequate provisions for essential services to the persistent social stigma and discrimination, there are evident flaws in the act. While the debates surrounding the act continue, it is crucial to acknowledge that these issues have significantly impeded its successful implementation.
The Postal Codes of Pakistan
With a vast network of over 13,000 postal offices, Pakistan Post is dedicated to facilitating efficient package delivery both nationally and internationally. Essential for streamlined logistics, postal codes play a crucial role in this process. This article presents a comprehensive list of the postal codes of Pakistan, spanning from cities to remote areas.
The World in 2023: A Turbulent Year
The turbulent year of 2023 has finally come to an end. The year was marked by numerous conflicts, tragedies, clashes, and chaos around the globe. Unfortunately, the year 2023 has passed instability and chaos to the coming year. Notably, the United States played the key role behind most of these conflicts due to its economic interests.
Artificial Intelligence & Jobs: What Does the Future Hold?
Noman Waheed discusses the potential benefits and drawbacks of artificial intelligence, primarily focusing on its impact on global employment. While the rise of AI negatively influences jobs, particularly in routine sectors, it also has the potential to create jobs in tech-based industries. The author encourages skill development to adapt to the evolving job market influenced by AI.
