06/12/08, Letter to the Editor, printed in the Oshkosh Northwestern (WI)

“Colleges should protest Pakistan expulsions”
By Saad Ahmad, Oshkosh

A few days ago some medical students in Pakistan were expelled based on their religion. See:

http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2008%5C06%5C08%5Cstory_8-6-2008_pg7_24.

As strange as it may sound to us in the United States, it actually happened. The students are accused of distributing information about their faith to their fellow students. Even if the accusation is true, isn't that what higher education is all about? It is interesting that on one hand they have this attitude toward higher education and in the same breath they will accuse the west of every single problem that they face.

It is especially interesting to note the attitude of the principal of this medical college. His cowardice is exemplary. He expelled the students to "cool down" the students who wanted them to be expelled – and that he will "negotiate" with both sides to find a solution. Is it surprising that terrorists from across the globe find refuge in Pakistan? If the elite academia is so accommodating to these thugs one can only imagine the attitude of the masses.

I urge all local colleges, technical colleges, and especially the University of Wisconsin to take serious notice of this grave injustice. They should issue a strong notice to the medical college (http://www.pmc.edu.pk/), and the government of Pakistan (http://www.pakistan-embassy.org/). Such attitude must not be tolerated.