New Perspectives: Make the Nation Skilled, Not Beggars

When we look around us, we often see banners that read “Eat Free Food.” For a moment, it feels comforting to know that no one in need will suffer from hunger. But if we think deeply, these banners raise an important question: Why is it that we only see such banners, but none that say:

“Learn Welding for Free”

“Learn Plumbing for Free”

“Become a Car Mechanic for Free”

“Learn Computer Skills for Free”This question leads us to a harsh reality. In the name of charity, we are turning our nation into a lazy, unskilled, and dependent society. While the society needs skilled individuals to move forward, we are only providing temporary relief.

Charity or Self-Sufficiency?

Charity is often considered a virtuous act, and in many ways, it is. But when did the concept of charity turn into a culture of begging? In our society, the tendency is to give fish to those in need, but never teach them how to catch it.

With the cost of two large pots of food, you could buy a welding machine and all the necessary tools. You could hire a teacher for a week and teach a group how to weld. At the end of the week, you could give each participant a welding machine worth 10,000, and they would be self-sufficient for life, earning an honest living with dignity.

Charity should not just provide temporary relief; it should empower people to become self-sufficient. The true spirit of charity lies in helping others stand on their own feet.

Islamic Teachings: Encouraging Self-Sufficiency

The teachings of Islam emphasize not just charity, but also hard work, dignity, and self-sufficiency. A famous example from the life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) comes to mind. A man came to the Prophet for help, and instead of giving him immediate assistance, the Prophet (PBUH) gave him an axe and said, “Go and cut wood from the forest and sell it.”

This story teaches us that the best form of charity is not to give handouts, but to empower others to be self-sufficient. If we adopt this principle in our society, we can help countless people lead dignified and independent lives.

Social Decline: The Growth of the Beggar Culture

Unfortunately, a culture of begging is rapidly growing in our society. Beggars are seen at almost every corner of the street. This problem is not only individual but is also being fueled by many charitable organizations.

Large-scale food programs are organized, but no attention is given to teaching skills.

Assistance programs are designed to help people, but they don’t provide a long-term solution to self-sufficiency.

This trend is not only making individuals dependent but is also creating an obstacle to the collective progress of our society.

The Importance of a Skilled Nation

A skilled nation is the backbone of a prosperous society. When we look at the examples of developed nations, we can clearly see the importance of skills:

After World War II, Japan focused on skill development, and today, it is one of the most advanced nations in the world.

China invested in educating and skilling its workforce, and now it has become the second-largest economy globally.

We can adopt the same model in our country. If every charity organization set up programs to teach skills, we could make millions of people self-sufficient.

Practical Steps: Self-Sufficiency Programs

1. Establish Skill Training Centers:

Set up centers where people can learn welding, plumbing, tailoring, computer skills, and more.

Provide necessary tools and equipment to enable individuals to earn a living independently.

2. Microfinance Programs:

Provide low-cost loans to help individuals start their own businesses.

Make the loan repayment process manageable to prevent it from becoming a financial burden.

3. Reform the Education System:

Incorporate skill development programs into the educational curriculum.

Instead of only issuing degrees, focus on practical skills that can help individuals earn a livelihood.

4. Collaboration:

The government and private sector should collaborate to establish self-sufficiency programs.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives should invest in skill training programs for the community.

Positive Aspects of Charity

It is important to note that charity should not be completely disregarded. Immediate relief for those in need is essential. However, charity that focuses on long-term self-sufficiency is more effective in the long run.

Nation Building: Your Role

Every individual can contribute to the nation’s development:

If you have the financial resources, teach a skill to someone in need.

If you have knowledge, share it with others.

If you are part of an organization, start skill development programs.

Conclusion: New Perspectives

We must acknowledge that charity provides temporary assistance, but teaching skills lays the foundation for lasting prosperity. Instead of making our nation dependent, we need to empower people to become self-sufficient.

Think about it!
The cost of one large pot of food could change lives if invested in providing welding machines, instructors, and a week of skill training. Let’s focus on building a self-sufficient culture rather than a begging culture, and only then can we create a strong, self-reliant, and prosperous nation.

Written by: Muhammad Asif Asi
Islamabad