By| Farooq Ah Lone
Education is often said to be the most powerful weapon for changing the world. For our boys and girls enrolled in schools and colleges, acquiring knowledge is vital for a bright and stable future. However, this journey is challenging. Students must focus on their studies and goals with unwavering determination while avoiding distractions that could jeopardize their performance. They face the pressure of technology-related addictions, such as smartphone use, online gambling, and pornography, which can detract from their educational pursuits. At the same time, they must steer clear of morally questionable actions, including casual relationships with the opposite gender and involvement in harmful habits like smoking and drinking.
Parents play a crucial role in guiding their children through these difficulties. It is essential that they accompany their children on this path, providing support and guidance to ensure a smooth journey toward a successful future. Educators also share this responsibility, acting as guardians and defenders of their students’ character against the negative influences and harmful trends that permeate society.
One of the most concerning issues today is the development of relationships among young boys and girls. While the existence of these relationships is not new, the pace at which they have increased has escalated dramatically over the past few decades, largely due to the rise of mass and social media. Platforms like television provide easy access to movies and shows that depict romantic relationships among young people, while social media facilitates connections between individuals regardless of age or location. This exposure often leads students to emulate the romanticized portrayals they see on screen, creating a trend that many consider morally unacceptable.
As students engage in these relationships, they frequently invest significant time in social activities rather than their studies. This diversion can lead to poor academic performance, particularly in annual examinations and entrance tests for professional courses. While some may excel despite their relationships, many young people who pursue romantic interests at an early age tend to struggle academically. Furthermore, these distractions can distance them from important religious and moral obligations, such as prayer and family responsibilities.
The consequences of these choices highlight a concerning lack of intellectual and religious strength in our society. Many children deviate from the right path early on, and we often stand by as helpless observers. Instead of addressing this moral epidemic—one that spreads like wildfire—some families attempt to shield their children by keeping them away from perceived evils. This is not a sustainable approach. It is crucial to confront these issues directly, as simply avoiding them does not eliminate the underlying problems.
To effectively guide our children and prevent them from falling into moral traps, we must focus on building their intellectual and spiritual strength. This responsibility begins with parents, who should emphasize the importance of religion in their children’s lives. Encouraging the reading and understanding of the Holy Quran and promoting daily prayers can help instill a strong moral foundation. Parents should also strive to befriend their children, creating an environment of love and support that helps combat feelings of loneliness.
It is important for parents to recognize that, if their children do not marry at an appropriate age, they may be more susceptible to moral deviations. Parents should not forget their own youth and the desires they had for companionship. While today’s youth face different challenges, the desire for love and connection remains universal. The stark contrast lies in the weakening of moral values, which has led many young people to seek relationships outside of marriage rather than approaching their parents for guidance.
Schools also play a vital role in the moral and cultural development of children. By emphasizing the importance of discipline, morality, and character, educational institutions can help combat the negative influences that often accompany early relationships. Students must understand that a fulfilling love life does not begin with casual dating but is rooted in a lifelong commitment through marriage, guided by religious and legal principles.
Now,let us unite to foster a better society through education, reason, and a strong commitment to moral values. By addressing the challenges facing our youth and providing them with the tools to navigate their paths, we can create a future where education and morality go hand in hand. Through collaboration among parents, educators, and communities, we can ensure that our children are equipped to face the complexities of modern life while remaining grounded in their values.
About Author: Farooq Ahmad Lone is an ignou student in BA. He writes on international relations, social, religious and cultural issues. He can be reached at [email protected]