TROPHY HUNTING: Recently, foreign hunters from Russia and the United States paid a hefty $71,000 to the gover- nment for hunting markhor under the relevant trophy hunting programme. The markhor is more than just a national animal; it is a symbol of Pakistan’s strength and identity. Allowing wealthy individuals to hunt our national animal for sport is unacceptable. Instead, we should focus on protecting wildlife, preserving forests, and promoting eco-tourism. This approach will enable local communities to earn a living without harming our animals. The government should put an end to the trophy hunting programme.

Shahque
Hub

ROOT LEARNING: The article ‘Why homework?’ (Feb 7) suggested that homework is not essential for a child’s learning. In our current educational system, students remain focussed on completing homework, and that can hinder their natural learning process. A teacher may not fully understand children’s learning process, as children learn through their own experiences and exploration. Forcing them to do unnecessary activities can be counterproductive. When children learn something clearly from a teacher, they are unlikely to forget it. Another factor that hinders a child’s natural learning is the language used as the medium of instruction. Ultimately, the solution lies in encouraging root learning, making homework unnecessary.

Rahim Dad
Turbat

DENIAL OF RIGHTS: The information commissions in Punjab as well as Balochistan have yet to have a designated head, and that is affecting their functio-nality. The Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) and the commission in Sindh have been incomplete since January last year due to the absence of civil society members. These positions are crucial for fair decision-making. Without these appointments, the commissions remain weak, making it even harder for the people to exercise their right to information.

Moonus Kayinat Zahra
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, March 19th, 2025