Walk into most schools in Pakistan today, and you will see one thing in common. English is everywhere. From nursery rhymes to science lessons, the language of instruction is English. Parents proudly enroll their children in English medium schools, believing it will open doors to better careers and brighter futures. But is this craze an advantage or just an illusion?
The Promise of English Medium Education
English is also seen as the global language of success. The majority of parents believe that if their child studies through English, they will have greater employment opportunities and possibilities abroad. It is also a status symbol. A child who is proficient in English is seen to be more educated or sophisticated.
The Reality in Many Classrooms
While the promise is good, the reality is different. In the majority of the schools, the teachers themselves are battling with English. Classes become a mix of broken English and rote memorization. Students end up learning less of the subject as they are more worried about the language itself. This leads to poor concepts and weak critical thinking skills.
Impact on Local Languages
The trend towards English medium schools also sidelines Urdu and local languages. Children grow up unable to read and write fluently in their mother tongue. It can erode cultural identity and render them incapable of communicating with locals.
A Balanced Approach
English is a useful skill, and it must be taught well. But its use as the only language of instruction from the very start may not be the best approach. A good grounding in the national language or mother tongue can make learning easier. English can then be gradually and effectively introduced.
Final Thoughts
For Pakistan, the English medium craze is a challenge and an opportunity. Done correctly, it can open the world’s knowledge to students. Done incorrectly, it can leave them vulnerable both in English and in academic subjects. Taleem Foundation believes in quality education that honors both linguistic proficiency and true understanding. The goal needs to be to prepare students for the world without detaching them from their own. Pakistan’s English Medium Craze: Advantage or Illusion
Walk into most schools in Pakistan today, and you will see one thing in common. English is everywhere. From nursery rhymes to science lessons, the language of instruction is English. Parents proudly enroll their children in English medium schools, believing it will open doors to better careers and brighter futures. But is this craze an advantage or just an illusion?
