THE age restriction imposed by the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) on some job posts is unfair. The PPSC has stipulated that candidates must be above 25 years to apply for certain positions.

As a 23-year-old Business graduate, I am deeply disappointed by the limitations imposed on young graduates, like myself, who aspire to serve in the government sector. This arbitrary age limit not only disregards the talents and capabilities of younger individuals, but also perpetuates unemployment by forcing them to wait untiltheyreach a certain age threshold to be considered for these positions.

Further, the PPSC advertisements for job openings consistently exhibit bias, favouring candidates who fall within a specific age bracket, effectively excludingmany qualified individuals solely based on their age. It is rather disheartening to witness that a system that should be based on meritocracy adopts discriminatory practices against young graduates.

The Punjab government must address the issue and take immediate remedial action. Every citizen, regardless of age, deserves an equal opportunity to compete in the job market. By implementing baselessbarriers, the PPSC is depriving countless younggraduates of a chance to pursue their aspirations and to serve their respective communities.

The authorities should reconsider this unjust criterion and ensure that the recruitment process is conducted in a fair and transparent manner, where meritocracy prevails over arbitrary limitations. It is only through such measures that we can foster a society where talent, merit and dedication are recognised and rewarded, irrespective of any irrelevant factor.

Usman Abdullah Vehari