In this episode of Let’s Talk Development, Ayesha Hussain (Educationist and Author) sits down with Dr. Syed Turab Hussain (Economist, Educator and Principal of Aitchison College) to discuss one of the most important questions of our time: is education in Pakistan keeping up with the fast-evolving world?
From the overemphasis on grades in classrooms across Pakistan to the quiet erosion of deep thinking, Dr. Hussain draws on his extensive teaching experience at institutions like LUMS, and now heading Aitchison College, to make a compelling case for returning to the basics: critical thinking, strong writing and, above all, building character. The conversation also explores where AI fits in, and where it does not, why good teachers remain irreplaceable and what it will take to prepare Pakistan’s younger generation for a rapidly shifting world.
Ayesha Husain is an education consultant, researcher and an instructor with over 25 years of experience in the sector. She has previously served as Programme Manager for a World Bank-funded project with the Punjab Monitoring and Implementation Unit, School Education Department. She currently teaches at LUMS. Her debut novel, titled “What More Could She Possibly Want” was published in February 2023.
Dr. S.M. Turab Hussain is an academic and researcher currently serving as Principal of Aitchison College. He was previously an Associate Professor of Economics at LUMS, and served as Chair of the Economics Department at LUMS for nine years. He has authored numerous research papers, public policy reports and a book. Dr. Hussain holds a BA in Economics from the College of Wooster (US), an MA and PhD in Economics from the University of Essex (UK), and a BA from Government College, Lahore. He is also an alumnus of Aitchison College.