Education for a better future for Pakistan says Bishop of Islamabad

(February 02, 2012) School and education are the guarantee of "a better future for Pakistan", because they help to "understand what is happening around us in a clear and logical way," said Bishop Rufin Anthony, Bishop of Islamabad-Rawalpindi, who is also chairman of the Diocesan Committee for Education. He added that the value of education as a primary way to revive the fortunes of the Christian community in Pakistan – which still suffer marginalization and persecution - and, at the same time, contribute to the development of the nation. During this week he hopes to visit schools and Catholic institutions, illustrating educational projects aimed at increasing the level of knowledge while maintaining the principle of gratuitousness and the right to study for all. In his recent address to the students and staff of St. Mary `s Cambridge School, Islamabad the prelate stressed that an educated person "has the ability to make decisions and make the right choice at the right time." Education helps the individual to "make the most of their potential" and lay the foundations for the future, transforming him or her into a "responsible citizen and an active member of society." The Prelate added that "Education opens the mind and expands horizons". Study is essential to "understanding our culture and our history" and, thus, to immerse "ourselves in those values that can make us better citizens”. The Bishop called on the students to be role models, to become future leaders of Pakistan."