Aam Olas Ep 348: Students Protest School Closures
Aam Olas Episode 348
In Aam Olas Episode #348, titled “Sarak Ao Sabaq (Street Classroom)”, journalist Yousaf Jan Utmanzaidocumented a student-led protest against the repeated closure of educational institutions in Pakistan during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The episode captured voices from students who questioned government policy decisions and demanded a clear, consistent, and practical approach toward education during public health emergencies.
Background: Education Closures During COVID-19
By the time of this episode, Pakistan had been dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic for over a year. While vaccines had reached the country, access remained limited, primarily restricted to senior citizens at that stage.
Despite partial economic activity resuming across the country, the government announced another round of educational institution closures, affecting schools, colleges, and universities.
Students’ Core Concerns
Students participating in the protest emphasized that they were not demanding unsafe reopenings, but rather calling for education to resume under strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Their primary concerns included:
- Markets and wedding halls are remaining open
- Large gatherings continue without consistent enforcement of SOPs
- Education is the first sector to shut down and the last to reopen
Students argued that education should be treated as an essential service, not an optional activity.
University-Specific Issues Highlighted
A major point raised in the episode focused on university policies. According to students:
- Classes remained online for most of the year
- Universities reopened campuses specifically for examinations
- After the exams concluded, institutions were closed again
This pattern led students to question the logic and consistency behind such decisions, especially when on-campus exams were permitted but regular teaching was not.
“Sarak Ao Sabaq” – Learning Moves to the Streets
The title of the episode symbolized how students felt compelled to take their concerns outside the classroom and onto the streets. Protesters expressed frustration over academic uncertainty, delayed degrees, mental stress, and a lack of clear communication from authorities.
Through interviews and现场 reporting, Yousaf Jan Utmanzai presented the protest as a call for dialogue, not confrontation.
A Broader Policy Question
The episode raised broader questions relevant to policymakers and society:
- Can education operate safely under controlled conditions?
- Why are SOPs applied unevenly across sectors?
- How can student voices be included in decision-making?
The discussion highlighted the need for balanced policies that protect public health while safeguarding the future of students.
Conclusion
Aam Olas Episode #348 documented a critical moment where students sought answers, transparency, and fairness in education policy during an unprecedented crisis. Rather than opposing health measures, the protest reflected a demand for consistency, planning, and respect for education.
The episode serves as a reminder that long-term educational disruptions have consequences—and that effective solutions require listening to those most affected.