As a student of a public university, I come across many students on a daily basis. I have observed a sad truth, which is the fact that reading as a hobby has declined considerably in our society. Earlier this trend was found common amongst our youth and general populace, but due to advancements of technology and gadgets, no one pays any attention to reading for pleasure. Such a trend has many negative effects, with students who do not read facing trouble in vocabulary, ideas, creativity and general lack of knowledge. Our youth is more interested in social media sites or watching movies rather than spending time reading a good book.
I feel something must be done to cure this dilemma because if it is allowed to grow, it will be the intellectual cancer of our society. Reading programs must be initiated at schools, colleges and universities across Pakistan and parents should also be taught to encourage their children to read.
TAMAR CECIL,
Karachi, June 10.