IT is saddening to see how internships in Pakistan have become equated with free labour instead of genuine learning opportunities. What was originally intended as a formal, guided process for new graduates has now become a cycle of exploitation where interns are overworked, underappreciated, and often unpaid.

In all the different fields the media, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), information technology, education and even government offices the interns are increasingly being asked to act like full-time workers.

They post on social media, craft lengthy reports, update databases, or even fetch coffee, but are given neither a stipend nor some meaningful guidance.

The employers often hide behind the façade of`providingexposure`to the interns. Even if they are right and sincere,thisexposure doesnotcovertravelcosts, food, or college fee. Does it? This mentality deters talented students who cannot afford to work for nothing.

Internships, as they stand now, have turned into favours granted only to those with financially secure backgrounds.

The problem also stems from the absence of regulations. Pakistan does not have any law that safeguards the rights of interns. Universities hardly step in, and companies do not face any consequences for ill-treating interns. Some do not even provide certificates, let alone something in the name of career guidance or feedback.

We urgently need a national policy that standardises internships. Companies should be required to pay a minimum amount as stipend, provide a learning plan, and formally acknowledge the contributions made by the interns.

Interns, we must remember, are the future of the labour force, and they deserve to be treated fairly with respect and dignity.

Arshad Ali Katper Jamshoro