A nation’s literacy rate is a key indicator of its progress. However, true national advancement requires not just basic literacy, but quality education with direction and purpose. It is deeply troubling to witness the increasing involvement of young students in heinous crimes — often sensationalised through social media.
We must reflect on the underlying causes. Socio-economic pressures, family dysfunction, and peer influence all play roles, but a crucial factor is the lack of awareness among young people regarding the legal framework of our society. These impressionable minds often have little understanding of the laws that govern them, the consequences of their actions, or the impact of those actions on others and on society at large.
We must move beyond teaching only basic literacy and instead cultivate a citizenry that respects the rule of law. To achieve this, our education system needs timely reform — including the introduction of legal studies at the matriculation level.
Incorporating legal education into the secondary curriculum would be a powerful preventive measure. By learning about legal principles, the structure of the justice system, and the definitions and penalties of various offences, students would gain a vital understanding of their rights and responsibilities. This knowledge would empower them to make informed decisions and resist negative influences. Legal education would also nurture respect for the law and encourage civic responsibility. It might even inspire students to pursue careers in law, strengthening our justice system.
The frequent viral news of youth crimes underscores the urgency of this issue. While social media can spread awareness, it can also erode public trust and amplify despair. Providing legal literacy to our youth is not just an academic improvement — it is an investment in the future stability and prosperity of our nation.
ADVOCATE RIAZ ALI PANHWAR,
Hyderabad.
