Book Review by Dr. Mubarak Ali
Nationalism,
Education and Identity. Robina Saigol Fiction House, Lahore Pages 294 Price: 150,-- This
book is written by Robina Saigol. This is one of the first analytical
works in Urdu language. It is an attempt to analyse educational policies
in Pakistan. It points out the motives involved behind the making of
educational policies and the way our rulers formulate the text books to
safeguard their interests. Special emphasis has been laid on the way
nationalism has been used to write the text books. It
is necessary to keep in mind that nationalism has both positive and
negative aspects. For example during colonialism, nationalism was used
to unite the people against the imperialist rule. Even for the creation
of Pakistan religious nationalism was used to mobilise the people
against Hindu domination. But after the creation of Pakistan the spirit
of nationalism was used by the ruling class to protect their privileges.
Nationalism and the
slogan of fraternity were employed to divert people’s attention
from class differences. It meant the exploitation of poor by the rich. To
arouse nationalist feelings among the people, national anthems are
written, qualities of government institutions are emphasised
and undue praise is given to the leaders. A large number of
heroes are presented before the people to make them realise that the
national heroes play a significant part in the protection of the
country. These national heroes consist of politicians, army men and some
sycophants. Robina
has also pointed out that nationalism is strengthened in the presence of
an enemy. India is looked upon as an enemy in the text books. In order
to maintain the status of enmity the Two Nation theory became the
foundation of our nationhood. In this context she has also pointed out
how the image of women acts as a foremost factor in determining the
honour of the country, whereas men are portrayed as their protectors. Robina has analysed the educational policies in great depth. Its simple language makes it readable and effective. The reader is called to analyse the current educational policies and how they should be improved.
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