Faisal Qureshi... Come On Down!*

At this time, "Bang-e-Dara", the program hosted by Faisal Qureshi, is just more of the same. Political conflict and controversy are tossed back and forth, disguised as current affairs and to what end ?. What possible good could come of it ?. We expect this fare from a hack, but not from a highly educated, erudite young man.

In my humble capacity as a viewer, I would like to suggest that Bang-e-Dara be the fountainhead of knowledge that informs and inspires the future generations of Pakistanis.

For instance, invite Dr. Samar Mubarikmand or Dr. Ata-ur-Rehman for in-depth discussions on the various (green) energy resources in Pakistan and how we can best tap them. Dr. Hoodbhoy for how best to institute educational reforms. Sen. Khwaja Asif on the pitfalls of the Rental Power 'Scheme'. There are plenty of experts who could discuss the engineering aspects of infrastructure programs which have become political footballs, like Kalabagh Dam. Similarly, we can discuss Health, Economics, Ecology, Consumer Affairs, etc armed with graphs, charts, maps and Power Point presentations.

These thorny issues and challenges should be explored with experts in the field, one-on-one, with conclusions based upon facts and merit of their arguments. Not political wrestlers who try to showcase the strength of their vocal chords and paucity of grey cells.

In short, you can continue to try and compete with the talking (shouting?) heads, or shift the paradigm of discourse to something meaningful. Something of real value and not just more fluff and static. And who best to do it, than a fellow who is comfortable with science and technology, is aware of his surroundings and has the gift of communication ?.

You are the right man, at the right time and in the right place to play your unique part. Question is, will you do it ?.

(*) "... Come On Down!", is a phrase made popular by Bob Barker

on his longest-running game show on CBS called "The Price Is Right".