Recently, there has been growing interest in translation studies. But what could be the reason behind the rapid rise in the popularity of translations across the globe?

It is often said that the gap between developed and developing countries boils down to knowledge and is rooted in educational institutions. In debates about education, the role of language has always been fundamental. One of the key questions raised in discussions on teaching and learning is: what should be the medium of instruction?

### Language Policy in Pakistan: A Historical Perspective

Immediately after independence, Urdu was given the status of the national language and English the status of an official language. Since Urdu had become a part of Muslim identity during the Pakistan Movement, it was declared the national language. The very first education conference held in 1947 also discussed the medium of instruction and the status of Urdu.

The 1959 Sharif Commission recommended that Urdu should become the official language within 15 years, which meant the process should have been completed by 1974. However, the 1973 constitution extended this period by another ten years.

Despite all this, there has been a lot of lip service to Urdu but no real steps have been taken for its promotion and development. Entry into the most important civil and military bureaucracies, for example, requires proficiency not in Urdu but in English. Similarly, for jobs in multinational companies in Pakistan, knowledge of English is essential.

### The Social and Economic Divide Widened by Language

As a result, Urdu, the national language, never became the first choice socially when compared to English. Instead, English became the language of power. Mastery of English can open doors to employment, and association with it is seen as a mark of high social status.

Another key responsibility that has been ignored at the government level is the promotion of Urdu alongside other languages. Over time, the social and economic gap between the rich and the common people widened, with language playing a crucial role in this divide.

English, accessible to only a small segment of society, became the language of the wealthy. The majority of people, unfamiliar with English, were effectively excluded from modern education and knowledge.

### The Importance of Translation in Bridging the Knowledge Gap

Throughout Islamic history, translation bureaus were established at the state level to quickly translate books published in other languages. In modern times, the translation bureau of Hyderabad Deccan continued this proud tradition.

Had Pakistan maintained this tradition by creating an effective translation bureau—one that translated books and articles from other languages—the goal of making Urdu the medium of instruction might have progressed beyond a mere political slogan.

Currently, only about six percent of Pakistan’s population has access to English books and journals. This means the majority cannot access the wealth of information contained in English research articles and publications.

To bridge social and economic divides, access to knowledge in English and other languages is vital. Therefore, establishing a national translation bureau is essential. If managed by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), nearly 200 universities could be included in this initiative.

### Challenges and Recommendations for a National Translation Initiative

A project of such dimensions will, however, face several challenges:

1. **Rapid Advancement of Knowledge:** Books and articles are being published constantly. Sporadic translation efforts will not keep pace. Translation must be scaled up and coordinated to meet the demand.

2. **Selection of Materials to Translate:** A committee of subject matter experts should be formed to recommend important works for translation. Securing copyright permissions is also crucial and can best be handled at the government level.

3. **Ensuring Accuracy and Reliability:** Each translation must undergo thorough review and verification, possibly involving existing government institutions.

4. **Utilization of Technology:** Technology should be employed to address the scale and frequency of translations. Collaboration with leading IT institutions is essential. Currently, machine-facilitated translation achieves around 70 percent accuracy, so human supervisors are necessary to maintain and improve quality.

5. **Training and Resources:** Translator training can be supported through short-term courses. A directory of qualified translators should be compiled for easy access.

6. **Fostering a Translation Culture:** Universities should be encouraged to establish Translation Studies departments, and existing departments must be supported.

7. **Publication and Accessibility:** After successful translation, digital copies should be uploaded to the HEC repository for online access. Support from the National Book Foundation can aid physical publication efforts, given its focus on expanding students’ access to books.

### Collaboration is Key

Successful implementation of this ambitious plan will require coordination across several institutions. If the Higher Education Commission takes the lead, and some leading universities, the Ministry of Education, and the National Book Foundation join in, the vision of opening the doors of knowledge to those who cannot access English or other original languages can become a reality.

It is also important to recognize the need to translate not only into Urdu but also from Urdu and other Pakistani languages into national and foreign languages, promoting a two-way flow of knowledge and cultural exchange.

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Establishing a national translation bureau and fostering a culture of translation can play a transformative role in making education and knowledge accessible to all segments of society, bridging divides rooted in language, and unlocking the true potential of Pakistan’s diverse population.
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