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Can We Do Without English?
The importance of the English language can be understood from the fact that there are more than two thousand languages in the world, yet only English has achieved international status. Over the past two centuries, most research has been published in English. The rise of the internet has further elevated English as the global medium for exchanging ideas and information. In this context, as English gains prominence, the question arises: can we function without it? Two schools of thought debate this issue, as discussed below.
Before examining these arguments, it is useful to review the linguistic history of the subcontinent. Prior to Muslim rule, Indo-Aryan languages dominated. With the arrival of the Mughals, Persian became the court language and Urdu was spoken by soldiers and commoners. English entered Mughal courts in the sixteenth century and was institutionalized after the 1857 Rebellion, when Britain established direct rule. Although Pakistan, India and Bangladesh gained independence over seven decades ago, English remains a major official language—with both benefits and drawbacks.
Those who are in favour of using English in public offices and academic institutions cite several reasons.
The legacy of English in government, education and law is deeply embedded. Replacing it prematurely would disrupt administration, legal processes and official communication. No government since independence has successfully implemented Urdu in place of English, and any sudden shift could cause widespread confusion.
In multiethnic countries like Pakistan, English serves as a neutral lingua franca. Changing the official language to Urdu could provoke regional tensions and threaten national unity.
As the primary language of global research, English is indispensable for higher education, scientific publications and academic collaboration. A switch to Urdu could isolate scholars and weaken Pakistan’s participation in the international academic community.
Technological devices, software and online platforms are predominantly in English. Proficiency empowers individuals to use scientific equipment, access digital resources and participate fully in today’s tech-driven economy.
Globalization and diplomacy operate largely in English. Political leaders, business professionals and international organizations rely on it to negotiate agreements, share ideas and forge partnerships.
Supporters argue that strong English skills are essential for Pakistan’s future competitiveness, access to multinational job markets, digital entrepreneurship and integration into the world community.
Despite these arguments, opponents of English in official and educational contexts present compelling counterpoints.
They view reliance on English as undermining national dignity. Pakistan has its own rich linguistic heritage—especially Urdu, with a literary tradition spanning centuries. Overemphasis on English casts doubt on our own language and identity.
With Urdu spoken by over ninety-nine percent of Pakistan’s population, it is practical and inclusive to use Urdu for public administration, legal proceedings and education. Promoting Urdu publishing would strengthen cultural cohesion.
Critics recall that English was imposed by colonial rulers to create a sense of inferiority and disrupt indigenous education. Continuing to privilege English perpetuates that colonial legacy. Instead, Pakistan should invest in its national language.
The current multilingual environment—mother tongue at home, Urdu in social settings and English at school—overwhelms many students. Limited fluency in Urdu leaves insufficient capacity to master English, leading to academic frustration.
To keep the wheels of our progress turning and stay connected to global developments, we should continue studying English. It will not override our culture or civilization; rather, it will enrich our national identity, inspire innovation and reinforce our pride.
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