Though the recently approved National Youth Policy promises to boost sense of pride among youth by projecting its national heroes, the government has almost missed its first chance in this regard by not acknowledging Ali Moeen Nawazish, a young high-achiever.

Ali, a student of Roots School System, Rawalpindi, blazed his way into the Guinness Book of World Records, clearing 23 A-Level subjects and securing A Grade in 21 of them. He also became the first student in the world to secure 21 A Grades, the previous record being 13.

In the run-up to his examinations, the boy studied for up to 12 hours a day and in many papers he was the only one in the examination hall as he decided to appear in subjects rarely chosen by any Pakistani student.

In England, he was an instant celebrity at Cambridge where he sought admission following his remarkable success in A levels. He drew the attention of major international newspapers with CNN and BBC also airing his interviews. Ali has also been invited in many talk shows in the United Kingdom.

According to his teachers, the international media were keen on knowing his study schedule that enabled him to attempt four consecutive papers in one day. They were also amazed at how a student from a country where militants were constantly blowing up schools could top an international examination.

After reading the story of his hard work, thirst for knowledge and vision to compete at the international level, his school managers received many calls from the general public who felt proud to have such a star but unfortunately no relevant government official or department bothered to acknowledge Ali’s stunning achievement.

“Had there been any other country, Ali would have been recognised as a national hero,” said one of his teachers. “By not recognising his achievement, the government has actually lost an opportunity to boost the morale of youth, already frustrated with the prevailing uncertain situation,” she said.

The negligence of the relevant government departments is also against the thrust of National Youth Policy that aims to reinforce a sense of pride among youth and motivate them for achieving excellence. The official neglect also leaves a question mark over official claims of its policy’s implementation in letter and spirit.

To reinforce the sense of pride, awareness and motivation and to lift the morale of youth, the document mentions in its plan of action that the government will project national heroes in various walks of life by using various means of communication and media. It took the authorities 20 years to prepare and have this youth policy approved but it appears that it might take another two decades to actually start implementing it. (The News)