EYEWASH arrangements are usually required at two locations: in industry, to provide emergency eye decontamination when a worker’s eyes are exposed to harmful chemicals, dust or material; and in politics, to throw dust into the eyes of the people by repeatedly hurling misleading or illusory statements, plans or promises at them.

While the first is classified as a desirable ‘emergency control’, the second, or Type 2 eyewash is considered deceptive and detrimental. This article endeavours to explain how Type 2 eyewash has come to be accepted as a ‘standard operating procedure’ and how to treat this malaise.

On May 8, 2024, the prime minister, in a state of excitement, launched a fiery Type 2 eyewash, saying, “Today, with iron conviction … we will handle the challenge of 26 million out-of-school children. I declare from this moment an Emergency in Education all over Pakistan”. Four months later, on Sept 8, 2024, jolted by International Literacy Day (and having forgotten what he said earlier), he launched the same imaginary educational emergency. These outbursts weren’t based on prior research, thought or planning. Such emotional eruptions are not known for improving school enrolment numbers.

Type 2 eyewashes are typically........

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