Ashrafuddin Pirzada
KHYBER: Renowned religious seminary Al-Jamia Islamia Al-farooqia on Wednesday opened a private school system where poor and orphaned children would be provided free schooling in the Shakas area of Jamrud in district Khyber.
The Dawn Harward School System, under the directorship of Dr. Sayed Muhammad Hafiz, was formally inaugurated in Shakas of Jamrud locality. The opening ceremony was attended by a large number of religious scholars, educationists, locals, teachers, students, and civil society members. Taj Muhammad Afridi, the provincial caretaker minister for relief and rehabilitation, graced the occasion as the chief guest.
Dr. Sayed Muhammad Hafiz, the director of the Dawn Harward School System, addressed the gathering and emphasized that the school would adhere to international standards in its educational and recreational activities. He further announced that orphans would receive free books, uniforms, and boarding facilities within the school premises. A dedicated hostel for orphans was also established.
Dr. Hafiz mentioned that the school had already enrolled 200 students and would continue admissions for the next few weeks. In addition to formal education, the institution aimed to focus on character-building and developing leadership qualities among the enrolled students. The combined school system aspired to prepare individuals who would contribute to the country’s future in various fields such as religious scholars, engineers, doctors, and teachers.
Highlighting the school’s facilities, Dr, Sayed Muhammad Hafiz stated, “The school is equipped with a modern digital books lab and computers linked with international educational institutions, allowing students to connect with peers abroad.”
Provincial caretaker minister, Taj Muhammad Afridi, expressed his views on the educational systems in third-world countries. He attributed their poor quality to the lack of modern education and trained staff. Afridi stressed that a nation could not progress unless every citizen receives proper education. He cited historical examples where nations experienced a decline due to conventional and outdated educational systems.
Afridi commended the religious seminary for setting a healthy precedent by establishing a purely modern education system, which attracted a significant number of students. He expressed confidence that other seminaries would follow the example of Aljamia Islamia Alfarooqia and establish schools for underprivileged and orphaned children, making a substantial contribution to the nation.
The minister urged religious scholars and seminaries to utilize their resources and facilitate students in seminaries to acquire modern education alongside Islamic education.
