- the fact that housework is neither idleness nor lack of ambition - it is continuous, unpaid labour that sustains families and, by extension, society itself because managing a household, raising children and providing emotional stability demand commitment, endurance and skill. People say to reduce this contribution to ‘nothing’ reflects a narrow understanding of work that recognises only salaried employment, while ignoring the invisible labour that makes such employment possible and demeaning those whose contributions lie within the home is unfair and prejudicial.
- the problem of stray dogs and how it has become an issue that has civic authorities, animal welfare NGO’s and citizens squabbling over the best way to deal with it. People say the arguments - culling, right to live, menace for citizens - are logical, it is time that it was resolved and getting the male dogs spayed appears to be acceptable but unfortunately, rabies will still be an issue so that is the downside that needs looking into.
- violation of the one dish law is rampant in wedding ceremonies across the country, while those responsible for its enforcement are nowhere to be seen, so people are wondering if there is a law and does it only apply to less privileged families and not to the privileged? Marriage halls are reportedly hosting celebrations featuring lavish arrangements and a variety of food, much of which is wasted, while many in the country can’t have one decent meal a day.
- the report that while speaking at a gathering, a federal minister urged members of the business community to bring back 30 per cent of their wealth to Pakistan ahead of the federal budget, stating that about Rs100 billion was funnelled out of the country illegally in the last few years and the government knows how the culprits involved in money laundering can be traced. People say everyone knows why such efforts have failed in the past - because big names are involved.
- the fact that many bright young students are opting for foreign universities as unemployment rises and many graduates feel their skills do not match market demands, while the economic instability and rising inflation have made jobs even harder to find and digital freelancing remains a dream outside major cities. People say the private sector companies should be given tax incentives to those that hire fresh graduates for two years of paid training as youth disengagement must be addressed on an urgent basis.
- the fuel crisis and how it is affecting the working class, except the less privileged who walk to work or use a bicycle, which appears to be a good solution. Bicycles are good for health; don’t cause pollution and are easy to maintain. For those travelling long distances, public transport is a good option - less pollution and mandatory exercise going to and from pick up points, which will lead to a healthier population and pollution free cities.
- the fact that the health of a nation depends on resilient health systems supported by a competent healthcare workforce and nurses and midwives are the cornerstone of these, as no country can truly achieve universal health coverage or meet its sustainable development goals without them. However, there is still a global shortage of nurses and midwives and the situation in Pakistan is particularly concerning. With only about five nurses per 10,000 people, Pakistan has one of the lowest ratios in the world. — I.H.
