It was announced to revive student unions in colleges more than a year back but the idea got stuck in a debate and the notification for the purpose has yet to be issued and no strategy has been formulated to implement the decision.
Without any notification from the authorities, the government colleges are reluctant to permit the students to indulge in any union activity in the college premises, fearing it would amount to activities usually associated with political parties.
They also seem to be hesitant to allow the students in taking part in politics as it has a negative impact, and in the past led to violent incidents. While talking to APP, Principal Gordon College Abdul Qayyum said, "We did not receive any notification from federal or provincial governments for revival of student unions and have heard that provinces are showing resistance in this regard."
A common view is that studies of youngsters will be affected due to their participation in student unions, which in the past drew their support from political parties. It is also said the country is facing the problem of terrorism and miscreants, and will get a chance to boost their propaganda against the country by utilising these platforms.
The era is an age of computer and internet and students have to work in highly competitive atmosphere to come on merit for admission in universities. Giving his opinion, the Principal said literary, scientific and drama societies should be formed to enable students to utilise their energies in constructive activities.
Students have divergent views on the issue. A student said the government must chalk out a strategy for allowing students to participate in union politics. A sizeable portion of students want unions to be restored in colleges, as they see them as an opportunity to rub shoulders with politicians and gain experience for higher roles in the country's politics.
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