English Education
English Education: At a recent teacher training session, trainers asked teachers how they teach English grammar. Many teachers said they explain grammar in Urdu because students cannot understand English. This method may help students for a short time. However, it slows language learning. It also shows that many teachers need better training.
English-Medium Challenge
Many schools in Pakistan claim to offer English-medium education. They promise to prepare students for higher education and future careers. Reading and comprehension are essential skills. They also improve critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy. However, many schools fail to develop these skills in any language.
English-medium schools should teach every subject in English. However, many teachers switch to Urdu or other local languages. They often do this because they lack confidence in their English. As a result, students get less practice in English.
Language Barrier
For example, a Class 5 science teacher may read a lesson in English. Then the teacher explains the entire lesson in Urdu. Students may understand the topic. However, they do not learn the English vocabulary they need for study and communication.
Many schools rely heavily on local languages during lessons. This practice weakens English learning. Students later struggle to answer exam questions in English. They also find it difficult to express their ideas in English.
Policy Gaps
Many students depend on rote learning. They copy prepared answers or memorise them with help from private tutors. They repeat the same answers in examinations. They often do not understand the concepts. This gap between classroom teaching and examinations encourages shortcuts instead of real learning.
Education policies have not solved this problem. Schools receive mixed instructions. They must teach in English. They must also use Urdu to help students understand lessons. At the same time, they must respect regional languages. These conflicting goals create confusion for teachers and students.
Language Debate
Many provincial governments and language experts support mother-tongue education. However, many parents prefer English-medium schools. They believe English provides better educational and career opportunities. For example, many urban parents opposed Sindh’s proposal to introduce Sindhi as the medium of instruction in early grades. They feared it would reduce their children’s chances in English-based examinations.
Learning Solutions
Rote learning creates long-term problems. Students develop larger learning gaps over time. They lose confidence and motivation. Academic work also becomes more difficult.
Schools can improve this situation through innovation and commitment. Blended learning can support both teachers and students. Audio lessons, videos, visual content, and digital worksheets give students more chances to practise. Students can also learn at their own pace.
Teaching Improvement
If schools conduct examinations in English, teachers should also teach in English. They should focus on understanding instead of memorisation. Digital learning materials can also help teachers improve their English and subject knowledge. These tools can introduce better classroom strategies.
As teachers improve their skills, they can spend less time rushing through the syllabus. Instead, they can help students understand the content. This creates a more active learning environment.
Student Outcomes
Children learn better through colourful pictures, videos, experiments, and interactive activities. These methods increase interest and motivation. Skilled teachers can guide students to become confident and independent learners. Students should not depend entirely on their teachers.
Students with weak English skills face many challenges. They struggle in different subjects because English is the language of instruction. Poor English also limits access to higher education and better jobs. Inconsistent language practices make these problems even worse, especially for disadvantaged students.
Technology’s Role
Technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI), offers new learning opportunities. Digital tools can support teachers and students. However, success requires commitment, teacher training, and effective use of technology. With these efforts, schools can reduce language barriers and improve learning for everyone.
Published in Dawn, 14th July 2026
