The Role of Educational Institutions in Imparting Tolerance, Respect for Diversity and Interfaith Harmony

The latest episode of Jarga Maraka (debate and council) focused on the significance of educational institutions in enhancing students’ capacities.

The program discussed the importance of extracurricular activities to teach tolerance, respect for diversity, interfaith harmony, critical thinking and peaceful conflict resolution. Moreover, the program shed light on the presence of political parties and student unions in educational institutions, the poor culture of debating and the lack of student societies as well as the role of media and teachers in character building and engaging students in responsible citizenship.

Mr. Bakht Zaman, Professor of Journalism and Mass Communication at University of Peshawar, and Mr. Shahkar Aziz, a Political Activist based in Peshawar, took part as studio guest in the show.

Mr. Zaman said: “The role of teachers and parents is crucial for developing tolerance and building a conflict-free society. We must revive the culture of debate, speech competitions, sports and musical gatherings to create a more peaceful environment.”

Mr. Aziz said: “We need to establish societies and clubs in every department where students can have critical discussion on local issues to foster critical thinking, which will ultimately help in raising awareness and tolerance among students.”

A radio report was made the part of the program. The report highlighted the lack of tolerance and the absence of interfaith harmony among students in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Five callers took part live in the program. They urged the government to include lessons on tolerance, respect for diversity and interfaith harmony in the curricula of KP and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA).

About Sabawoon:

Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). It is designed to highlight the local issues and promote the fundamental governance values, such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry. The show airs Monday through Thursday every week under four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM. On Monday, Jarga Maraka covers current affairs and important regional issues with an input from government and other senior officials. On Tuesday, Da Simay Jaaj gives an overview of the top stories from KP and FATA regions. Jwandai Jazbey airs on Wednesday and deals with issues of relevance to, and significance for, youth, students and women. Socio-cultural affairs are discussed in Ranra on Thursday.