Are Student Federations greater than Student Welfare? By Sikander Bilal Khattak

In 1970s, student leadership was considered an achievement. Among those who had the courage became national level politicians in 1990. Javed Hashmi, Jehangir Badar (PPPP), Iftikhar Hussain (ANP) and Shiekh Rasheed (AML) achieved current status via student politics. The Political turmoil of 1974 to 1993 became their teacher. From 1990 onwards only Islami Jamiat-e-Talba (IJT) strengthened its ranks. In 2007 when Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founded Insaf Student Federtion (ISF), many believed that it won’t be a success story. Alhamdulillah today ISF has not only produced members of parliament but also a much larger group then other political student federations.

ISF for years has shown its mettle in organizing number of seminars, protests, and jalsas. Their commitment is not only appreciated by PTI top leaderships but also by many prime time anchors. So far so good but ISF have only organized political shows. ISF swelling is due to the charisma and leadership of Chairman Imran Khan. Student organization achieves respect within students by facilitating them. Student leaders are usually under strict radar by their respective institution because they are the ones who give voice to the students. They are the ones who can put their own education at stake for the sake of other students. They are the ones who keep a check on tuition fees, teachers, university rules and student facilities.

Currently students are so much burdened that these federations in particular couldn't attract apolitical or study conscious students. Most of the students at university level join professional groups. Such groups help them in their respective fields and groom them by organizing different seminars and workshops. ISF should look into organizing such seminars and workshops for the benefit of its members.

Leadership is more of a wise decision making. Leadership skills are always tested when someone is exposed to tough situations. It has a multi criteria objective function.

Exposing ISF tigers to tough situations, public welfare, and awareness programs through a systematic approach will further enhance and motivate them. Those who can keep him/herself abreast with others through his/her dedication, services and hard work should lead them. Senior members should start mentoring their juniors. Learning from mistakes is far better than doing mistakes. So if seniors could guide them, PTI and ISF will have a bunch of professionals in all fields.

As entry tests are around the corner the ISF should arrange mock entry test exams for college students. PTI professional group should be asked to facilitate ISF in organizing and managing events. Competitions and other events can really soothe the burden of students. Even sports events could come in handy. Such events simultaneously add value to the students as well as the organization. Additionally incompetent members will be filtered out and intra federation elections would become symbol of integrity and merit.

by webmaster@insaf.pk (tkiadmin)