*Subject: Dr. Asif Hassan, a Renowned Pakistani-Origin Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon — A Global Honor, and a Question for Pakistan’s Education System!!*

*Title: Baidaar Honay Tak*

*Subject: Dr. Asif Hassan, a Renowned Pakistani-Origin Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon — A Global Honor, and a Question for Pakistan’s Education System!!*

*Written by: Jawed Siddiqui Journalist*

The land of Pakistan is rich not only in natural resources but also in intelligent, talented, and courageous individuals. Across the globe, Pakistanis—through their hard work, aptitude, knowledge, and professional expertise—have achieved remarkable feats. These accomplishments have not only set benchmarks for individual success but have also brought honor to Pakistan. Yet, it remains a bitter reality that, within our own country, talented youth frequently face significant hurdles in accessing quality education, equal opportunities, a merit-based environment, and institutional support. In this context, the success of Dr. Asif Hassan—a prominent, Pakistan-origin pediatric cardiac surgeon—is both a source of pride and a moment for reflection for us.
*Dr. Asif Hassan was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the prestigious ‘Pride of Britain Awards’ in the UK in October 2026.*

This recognition acknowledges his long-standing contributions to the treatment of complex pediatric heart conditions, life-saving surgery, and the fields of medical research and training. According to the Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust—a British healthcare institution—Dr. Asif Hassan performed over 4,000 open-heart surgeries throughout his career, serving as the lead surgeon for approximately 3,000 of these procedures. He was associated with the pediatric cardiac surgery department at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital for three decades and played a pivotal role in the development of the pediatric heart transplant program.
*Dr. Asif Hassan’s contributions were not confined merely to the operating theater.*
He played a significant role in improving the treatment of complex pediatric heart conditions, advancing modern medical facilities for children awaiting heart transplants, and training young surgeons. His professional life serves as a shining example of how knowledge, persistent hard work, experience, and a spirit of service to humanity can bring hope into the lives of thousands of families. An emotional highlight of the occasion was the presence of some of his former patients—children whose lives were imbued with new hope thanks to the efforts of Dr. Hassan and his medical team.Such scenes serve as a reminder that a healthcare professional’s true success lies not in their position, fame, or accolades, but in the human lives they help to save and improve.
*Question for the Education System in Pakistan—Especially in Sindh! According to Javed Siddiqui, a prominent journalist and columnist from Karachi, this achievement by Dr. Asif Hassan raises serious questions regarding Pakistan’s education system and government priorities. After all, how many brilliant, hardworking, and talented students is our education system producing—students who are provided with quality education, modern facilities, a transparent merit-based process, and equal opportunities to showcase their potential? Are students’ abilities truly evaluated on the right grounds within our educational institutions?Is merit strictly upheld in admissions, examinations, the issuance of credentials, and recruitment for jobs? Do public educational institutions offer the opportunities for modern scientific education, research, practical training, and professional development necessary to produce world-class experts? An impartial review is essential—particularly in Sindh—regarding issues such as the quota system, educational standards, cheating, examination irregularities, and the adherence to merit. Wherever evidence emerges of incompetence, the use of influence, nepotism, the possession of fake credentials, or the acquisition of educational opportunities through illicit means, accountability must be enforced without discrimination. However, it is also not appropriate to hold an entire system or all educational institutions equally responsible without evidence. The governments of Pakistan and Sindh should ensure that reforms in the education system are not limited to mere announcements. The quality of instruction in schools and universities must be improved, investments should be made in teacher training, modern laboratories and research facilities should be provided, the examination system must be made transparent, and merit must be ensured in admissions and recruitment. Furthermore, an effective system of scholarships and financial assistance should be established for intelligent students who face economic hardships.
*While taking pride in individuals, we must also fix the system!*
It is only fitting to take pride in Dr. Asif Hassan’s success; however, true success will be realized when no promising Pakistani student is deprived of their dreams simply due to a lack of resources, an absence of connections, or an unfair system. Our goal should not merely be to celebrate the achievements of talented individuals abroad, but to foster an environment within Pakistan where intelligence, competence, and hard work are met with equal opportunities to flourish. Another crucial question is whether the state is providing its capable youth with the facilities that would enable them to reach global standards in fields such as medicine, engineering, science, education, and research. If we truly aspire to join the ranks of developed nations, then alongside praising individuals, we must also reform the institutions that shape the architects of the future.
*Karachi-based journalist Jawed Siddiqui’s stance is clear:* Pakistan’s future does not depend on slogans, recommendations, or superficial claims; rather, it hinges on quality education, transparent merit, genuine accountability, and the patronage of capable individuals.
*The global recognition received by Dr. Asif Hassan is a source of pride for us.*
The time has now come for the Government of Pakistan—and the Government of Sindh in particular—to draw lessons from this success and initiate educational and institutional reforms that will provide future generations with a genuine opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities.