By: Shujaat Kamal
N U S T
Gilgit-Baltistan is besieged by countless grim issues since its independence. One can easily witness inadequate facilities in the health sector & education sector. One and only one University for 1.5m inhabitant is the testament of the worst situation of the education sector. Health sector too is facing the appalling situation. Consequently, students from the region compelled to opt to go to down areas for higher education.
Former President Asif Ali Zardari had promised Benazir University during his visit to Gayari sector but that proved nothing more than just a phantom claim. Same announcements were made by Former PM Nawaz Sharief addressing election campaign rally in Gilgit. ‘Gilgit-Skardu road’ & ‘Baltistan University’ were the most important announcements as the later may curtail difficulties of GB students especially of those who can’t afford to leave their hometown because of financial problems.
Although there are some semblances that the government is going to make ‘Baltistan University’ dream comes true but there is a lot to do.The federal government must work with the provincial government to alleviate the dearth of educational institutions in the region. Ministry of Kashmir & Gilgit-Baltistan must persuade the federal government to open campuses of Engineering & Medical colleges in the region while Provincial government ought to mobilize the private sector to uplift the higher education in the deprived region. According to informed sources ‘Baltistan university’ is more likely to be functional this year. It would be undoubtedly a welcome move which the government to be praised for. (View the latest admission ad of Baltistan University)
