According to Azad Chaiwala’s controversial theory, it is claimed that one can complete a 16-year education in just 8 months, specifically 4 years in 2 months. I have detailed the course modules in the comments, comparing them to the typical study content in Software Engineering. However, I find this marketing approach disappointing. By the way, a friend used the title “engineer” after completing the course, and I strongly disapprove of such actions by influencers. Individuals like him, and content of that nature, should be promptly prohibited.
India boasts Vivek Bindra, and we have Azad Chaiwala. While Vivek focuses on teaching MBA, our counterpart is guiding in the field of software engineering. Fortunately, we don’t have a similarly energetic youth who begins software engineering by taking loans, or perhaps such individuals haven’t been discovered yet. The search is on for a Sandeep Maheshwari from Pakistan.
I condemned this person the day he said, “don’t send daughters to universities.” In the pursuit of gaining more views, I observed this individual playing with emotions. It seems incredibly unrealistic and, frankly, foolish to assert that critical skills can be acquired in just two months. Such statements feel like an insult to all university graduate software developers and skilled individuals. Unfortunately, in their admiration for this, I haven’t seen any influencer speaking out against Azad, who is becoming more liberated.
This is what they call a deceitful peddler. They are trying to deceive newcomers. If one could achieve success without attending university, then individuals like Elon Musk, Bill Gates, or Mark Zuckerberg would have become successful after completing a 6-month course rather than going through the university system. He went on to claim that one can join NASA after completing a 6-month course (of uncertain subject matter). Regrettably, he is invited to award ceremonies. How he interacts with others, his body language, and his tone of speech exude toxicity rather than masculinity. It’s disheartening to see those who support him.
What Does Software Engineering Degree Entail?
Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), various models of software engineering, software testing, UML diagrams, and Software Requirements Specification (SRS) are integral components of software engineering. These types of concoction sellers have strong backing from individuals who lack integrity. He is an arrogant and toxic person with absolutely no sense of masculinity, yet he portrays himself as a superstar.
Eighty percent of influencers are manipulating our emotions, often without a clear understanding of what they are teaching or the correct information. Regrettably, our country lacks proper laws, quality standards, and a sense of humanity. It’s essential to inform the remaining innocent population about deceptive tactics.
In the international market, the standards for software engineers usually encompass:
- Education: Typically, a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field is required, with some positions demanding a master’s degree or higher.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in programming languages (such as Java, C++, Python), software development, database management, and knowledge of algorithms and data structures are crucial.
- Experience: Relevant experience, including internships, project work, or previous job roles, is often a prerequisite, with the level of experience varying based on the position’s complexity.
- Certifications: While not always mandatory, certifications from reputable entities like Microsoft, Oracle, or Cisco can showcase expertise and commitment.
- Soft Skills: Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are vital for collaboration and project success.
- Continual Learning: Given the rapid evolution of the tech field, staying updated with the latest technologies, tools, and practices is important.
- Quality and Standards Compliance: Adherence to quality standards (like ISO/IEC standards) and an understanding of software methodologies (like Agile, Scrum) are often expected.
These standards ensure that software engineers are well-prepared to meet the demands of a globally connected and technologically advanced market. However, in our market, there seems to be a dismissive attitude towards these standards, with a focus on monetary transactions rather than skill and education.
Some individuals don’t strive to secure a position in a company; instead, they aim to become their boss. With a robust portfolio, one can attract direct clients from various platforms. Unlike in companies where the pay remains consistent, owning a business can yield more significant returns than one might anticipate.
In our firm and other reputable software companies, hiring or entrusting live projects to individuals without formal education and skills is unheard of. This is analogous to avoiding treatment from someone without a proper medical degree, preferring a doctor for the assurance of survival after treatment.
Azad Chaiwala’s Stance
On the other hand, supporters of Azad Chaiwala’s idea argue that being an engineer shouldn’t be determined by a piece of paper. They emphasize that degrees don’t always reflect proficiency, citing examples like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg, who left Harvard University without completing their degrees but are considered software engineering experts.
Those advocating for a change in educational approaches assert that the focus should shift from criticizing individuals to actively participating in reshaping university curricula. The call is for a proactive stance, urging those concerned to take the lead in reforming educational content rather than merely condemning current practices. The emphasis is on resolving the existing issues within the education system before delving into broader discussions or alternative solutions.
To some, there is no problem as long as the necessary credit hours (valid and authentic credit hours) for obtaining a Diploma, Certificate, Degree, or PGD are fulfilled. This seems akin to the Indian-style MBA in 10 days. The argument is against formal courses, advocating for individuals who learn from any source due to their passion and determination, asserting that hard work should be recognized, not just efforts within the university system. Short courses lasting 1-2 months can be undertaken to acquire these soft skills, supplemented by an internship in a professional office setting, which will further develop these skills over time.
Universities are predominantly engaged in part-time dating. I’m well aware of the intentions of the majority of boys and girls who enroll in universities. The education aspect is minimal, accounting for only 10% as claimed. The remaining portion is dedicated to entertainment, with teachers often merely sliding through the presentation slides, and students completing their credit hours.
Azad Chaiwala is correct in asserting that we are squandering our time in mediocre universities. It would be more beneficial to attend prestigious institutions like Harvard, Oxford, or perhaps IBA, as many universities lack genuine educational content. Alternatively, efforts should be directed toward elevating the curriculum standards in our universities. Azad Chaiwala is striving to make society realize the reality of the situation. Our young generation invests significant time and money in the education business but receives minimal positive or commendable Return on Investment (ROI). Entrepreneurs must discern and acknowledge this difference.
Closing the four-year gap is challenging
How can one demonstrate such expertise and effective communication skills with a mature and cultivated mindset without even engaging in fundamental self-improvement? In just 8 months, these programs appear to focus solely on instructing individuals in the art of making tea, without addressing the foundational elements necessary for personal development. Individuals of this sort play a crucial part in the current state of our country. These online troublemakers are responsible for exacerbating the nation’s hardships, exploiting the younger generation solely for their gain.
Software engineering goes beyond mere coding; it encompasses the entire process, mechanisms, and engineering principles required to develop high-quality software. The goal is to ensure that the software not only meets technical standards but also captures the desired market effectively. Where will one acquire ethical understanding, presentation skills, interpersonal communication, collaborative group work, teamwork, and extensive knowledge from professors’ lectures on the core of this subject?
Skills and education hold more significance than a degree. If I can acquire digital skills within a year, should I enroll in a university for a degree or utilize this time to gain hands-on experience and become an expert? Degrees are essential where they are genuinely needed. Many professions require a degree for expertise in that specific field. It is indeed disheartening to witness the undermining of the entire education system through misguided marketing techniques. There should be a collective voice raised against such practices.
Pakistani Universities and Their Role in Producing IIT level Software Engineers
Pakistani universities, in general, are often deemed inferior in producing software engineers compared to someone who can at least provide for their children – a task seen as more commendable than claiming to be a software engineer, a title frequently thrown around by university graduates as if it holds little significance. The international and local markets are distinct entities.
Why doesn’t the Higher Education Commission (HEC) address the urgent need for IT and skills development in our country? This aspect is often overlooked despite there being a course mandated by HEC that teaches about Ethical and Legal dimensions of Engineering. It is widely acknowledged that if our universities were to follow the standards you advocate, there would be little interest. Most people understand that it is more pragmatic to save time, pursue a course, start earning, and then acquire a degree from abroad.
In the initial semester, the curriculum includes ICT and Programming fundamentals, excluding subjects like Islamic Studies and English. The second semester covers Object-Oriented Programming, where instruction relies on slides and concepts such as pointers are explained concerning a book known for its numerous mistakes by an English author. Subsequently, Data Structures are introduced, with a recommended English book. Additional subjects in the curriculum consist of Physics, as well as language-related subjects like Arabic and English.
Concerning databases, approximately 25 pages are marked in a 1000-page book, which is considered sufficient for the fourth semester. Subsequent semesters explore topics such as C#, Java, and Web development (using PHP, HTML, jQuery, and JavaScript), covering foundational concepts and two specific aspects of the latter (with no emphasis on the fact that JavaScript is now utilized as a server-side language).
Advanced topics like Automata, algorithms (covered with a focus on 6-7 algorithms within a 6-month syllabus), and professional practices are also part of the curriculum. Networking and software design are taught through presentations and slides.
Ashamed to have Azad as a Pakistani Mentor
There is a reflection on the education system’s efficacy, with questions raised about the relevance and performance of universities and the Higher Education Commission (HEC). The inquiry extends to the current state of advanced courses and institutions in Pakistan. The objective assessment aims to evaluate the educational experience without singling out any specific individuals.
Mastery of any skill requires time, and there is no substitute for earning degrees. Acquiring degrees is not a simple task. Many sacrifices, including nights of sleep, numerous resources, precious belongings like a mother’s jewelry, and the dreams of many, are made to attain degrees. Therefore, it’s advisable not to take slogans promising achievements in just two months seriously; they are often part of a view-winning strategy, a dirty game with no substantial value.
Education goes beyond mere knowledge; we must liberate ourselves from such superficial notions. Universities are intended to shape your character, instill a sense of responsibility, impart street-smart skills, and help you recognize the joy of achievement. They are designed to emphasize the importance of friends and networking, offering valuable lessons in work and time management. Furthermore, universities teach essential financial management skills, including understanding funds and cash flow. They also provide valuable insights into the art of saying no.
Moreover, universities contribute to the enhancement of Emotional Intelligence (EI) by imparting lessons on morality, handling disgrace, navigating office politics, building speaking power, and fostering emotional strength, organization, wisdom, and confidence.
It’s important to understand that lessons learned from mistakes and failures are more valuable than anything else. Recognize that groomed and organized individuals are more likely to earn a name for themselves in the world. It’s not just about reaching a destination; the journey and what you accomplish along the way matter. Knowledge is merely a byproduct of this holistic process.
Therefore, I believe that all influencers should support our education system if it meets the required standards. If not, the reality is apparent for everyone to witness. I know numerous individuals who lack basic knowledge but are labeled as software engineers solely due to the shortcomings of this flawed education system, where universities prioritize entertainment over substantive learning.
Azad Chaiwala requires someone akin to Sandeep Maheshwari to upgrade his mindset.