THIS is with reference to the announcement of admissions by the Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, for master’s degree programme (Nov 30). There are two points that need special attention in the eligibility criteria set by the university. First, applicants above 26 years of age cannot apply and if they do, they need to justify the age relaxation. Their case would be considered separately by the vice-chancellor on the recommendations of heads of respective department.

Second, if someone has already done a master’s, he/she can’t apply, with an exception of two programmes.

I think age should not be a bar on somebody’s intent to get education, especially at the master’s level. In a country like Pakistan, where the majority of the population lives in rural areas, normal age brackets of students for primary, secondary and higher education are much higher than those dwelling in urban strata. Potential candidates for attaining a master’s degree from such areas would obviously be of higher age.

Another case worth mentioning in this context is that a number of students start working shortly after finishing their graduation for various reasons. They get a chance of studying further later in their lives, but by introducing such rules we are blocking their way.

These conditions for admissions for a master’s degree programme are nothing but a step to discourage people from studying. It is annoying that just because someone has already done a master’s, he cannot go to a prestigious institute in pursuit of quality education by quality staff.

If my interest gradually develops in different disciplines at any stage of my life, what is wrong in getting knowledge about that subject?

As portrayed, time and again, by official and independent sources, literacy level in Pakistan is one of the lowest in the world. In order to overcome this dismal situation, one would like to see a premier public sector university like Quaid-I-Azam University playing a greater role by introducing, generally rather than specifically, more progressive and inviting policies towards the getting higher education.

Such a bar would aggravate the situation for a country already stuck in a barrage of unending problems. Therefore, a reconsideration of the policy is requested.

MUHAMMAD TAHIR LUNI
Wah Cantt