JI Clarifies Bano Qabil Programme Is Not Political

KARACHI: In a recent development, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has made it clear to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) that its Bano Qabil IT programme is not a political initiative. Instead, it is an independent educational effort aimed at empowering the youth through information technology courses. This clarification comes in response to concerns raised by the ECP regarding the presence of JI Chief, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, at a Bano Qabil aptitude test event held in a Union Council (UC) that is set to participate in upcoming by-elections.

On Wednesday, JI Karachi Deputy Chief Saifuddin Advocate presented a written response to the Additional Deputy Commissioner (Central). The ECP had issued a notice questioning the nature of the Bano Qabil programme, suggesting it might be linked to the political activities surrounding the by-elections. However, JI firmly stated that the programme is purely academic and has been designed to help young individuals enhance their skills in the field of IT.

In the letter submitted to the ECP, JI highlighted that similar aptitude tests were conducted at three different locations across Karachi, attracting participants from various districts. The timing of the event was crucial; it had been scheduled well before the announcement of the by-elections, and registration for the programme had been open for several months. This indicates that the planning for the Bano Qabil initiative was independent and not influenced by the electoral calendar.

Saifuddin’s response to the ECP emphasized that the concerns raised appeared to stem from misinterpretations or misleading information. He expressed confidence that the ECP would recognize the importance of empowering youth through free educational programmes. Furthermore, he acknowledged that the presence of a well-known leader at such events can significantly encourage participation and interest among the youth.

The Bano Qabil programme stands as a testament to the potential of educational initiatives in fostering skills among the younger generation. As the world becomes increasingly digital, such programmes are essential for equipping youth with the necessary tools to thrive in a competitive environment. It is crucial for organizations and institutions to support these efforts, ensuring that education remains a priority, free from political entanglements. By focusing on education, we can pave the way for a brighter future for our youth, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.