Governance performance
People have a lot of hopes tied to the newly-elected government in the aftermath of a failed government. Quite a backlog is there to be handled. The new government would…
The science of life
In an earlier article, I wrote about how the field of nanotechnology is impacting developments in electronics, pharmaceuticals, new materials and many other areas. Fascinating developments have also taken place…
‘I-5 Group’
Pakistan possesses all the basic ingredients essential for becoming a global hub for Islamic banking and finance. The biggest advantage that Pakistan has over its competitors in Islamic banking and…
Islamic banking nears its big breakthrough in Africa
Islamic banking has grown rapidly around the world but the industry remains in its infancy in Africa. However, that might be set to change. There was a noticeable buzz at…
What’s Pakistan’s fiscal problem?
Pakistan's provinces where much of the welfare and infrastructure lies are all running balanced budget as required by the constitution - thank the Almighty. The federal government has obligations to…
State of higher education
The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) recently published a special report on ‘Higher Education in South Asia’. According to this report, higher education in South Asia is at a crossroads. Driven…
Public sector revamp
To its credit, the government has moved relatively fast on two important fronts: one, putting in place a credible, long-term plan for the resolution of the energy crisis; and two,…
Myanmar’s beans and pulses industry survives changing times
During Myanmar's socialist era, private trade in pulses and beans was dampened by death threats. "State buyers would tell farmers that if they didn't sell them their beans they would…
Arab spring – Muslim autumn
The word 'spring' immediately brings to mind new growth, green trees, flowering plants, lush green lawns and pleasant breeze. Even the birds break out in song. Psychologically, you are on…
Arab spring – Muslim autumn
The word 'spring' immediately brings to mind new growth, green trees, flowering plants, lush green lawns and pleasant breeze. Even the birds break out in song. Psychologically, you are on…
