Many argue that political unrest is the main reason behind the country’s decline in fortunes. Although these arguments contain some elements of truth, one cannot undermine the importance of literacy in taking care of the undemocratic norms in society. In fact, illiterate people often make their decisions on the basis of ethnic as well as linguistic preferences rather than, say, ideological principles. Besides, they are also unable to hold their leaders accountable. Eventually, all this results in the spread of social evils, like corruption. As such, illiteracy is the major reason behind political instability as well as economic downturn.
MARIA ZULFIQAR AWAN
ISLAMABAD