English today is the most widely spoken language in the world! It is taught and commonly used in more than 118 countries. It is the language of science, aviation, computers, diplomacy and tourism. To know English can minimise many language barriers.

Not many Pakistani’s study in English speaking schools. Most are educated in Urdu medium schools where all subjects such as mathematics, history and geography are taught but all in the Urdu Language. English is not even taught as s subject in most schools. The students who graduate from such institutions, no doubt are smart and intelligent, they get decent jobs. However, a point comes when growth may become restricted. Physical movement is affected. Why? Because inevitably, most government institutions or private companies, most administrative dealings or private dealing such as doctor visits, lawyer visits, all are carried out mostly in the English language. Court proceedings are written in the English language. Doctor notes are at times in English. Communication with bureaucrats and government organisations are usually in the English language.

This language barrier is surely to create hindrances in advancement of ones’ personal self as well as professionally even if one is to live in a country like Pakistan where our mother tongue is Urdu. One must grow. One most broaden their horizons to new things, to the world. English is the language of international communication. If one is to make conversation with a person of a different nationality, be it in Pakistan or abroad, it is impossible to be able to do so without knowing English.

Fluency in written and spoken English is the key to growing confidence. Learning English, which is a foreign language is known to be able to enhance cognitive and analytical abilities. A study from Switzerland showed studying a new language can change brain structures, making one more creative. Being bilingual also keeps the brain stronger and healthier. For an individual, it automatically helps improve personality and self-worth. It is a sure-shot way to make a person more dynamic and versatile and effectively keep up with changing times and the continuously evolving internationally arena that is the world of today.

English makes it easier to know what is going on in the world. Most news is available in the English language. Access to social media and understanding content is made easier if one has knowledge of English. As more than 52% of websites today are displayed in English, it opens up a whole avenue of information to English speaking users.

It is the dream of most people to be able to see the world, to travel, meet people of different cultures and backgrounds, to broaden ones horizon. The first step to travel is to know a familiar language that is English, a first language in 53 countries today. What better way to familiarise with other new cultures than to be able to communicate, appreciate and share each others views, opinions and thoughts?

It is apparent how important it is to know English, not only today but for years to come as it will continue to remain a universal language.