Apropos 'Forever Pakistani' carried by Business Recorder on Friday, it is indeed a matter of great concern that disdain for teaching as a profession should not come as a surprise in the Pakistani society. The writer has plausibly argued that "[T]hose who are unfortunate in seeking executive jobs in public and private sectors or do not have the capacity to conduct their personal business usually end up becoming teachers.
Very few venture out to adopt teaching as a passion or profession of first choice. Even the near and dear ones suggest taking up teaching where they see an unemployed friend or relative thus implying that this noble profession is at the bottom of the list of desirable career paths. As a source of livelihood, teaching has no glamour, no power play, not much money, no nuisance value, no excitement, very slow promotions and at times may even become rather monotonous with the same mundane routine day in and day out."
The writer also makes correct assessment of the role of Geoffrey Douglas Langsland who appears to be a more devout Pakistani than any of us can claim. How can anybody overlook the fact that not only did he opt to stay back in his adopted country but he also proved his loyalty by doing something for which our own professionals may have been highly reluctant if called upon to serve in places like North Waziristan and Chitral.