By Ashrafuddin Pirzada
LANDIKOTAL: District Election Commission Khyber organized a voter awareness session at the Government High School Muhammad Khan Killay in Landikotal on Saturday, aimed at educating students about the significance of voting and fostering a culture of civic responsibility among future voters.
The event was attended by the district election commissioner, Shahid Ali, as the chief guest. In his address to the students, he emphasized that the vote was not merely a right but a national trust that every citizen must value and protect. He said that creating awareness among the youth was vital to ensure they grow into responsible and informed voters who could contribute positively to the democratic process.
“Voting is the foundation of a strong democracy. Transparent elections and the right choice of public representatives depend on the responsible use of this right,” Shahid Ali told the students. He explained the role of the election commission and the importance of participation in elections to strengthen democratic institutions in Pakistan.
The school principal, Shahid Ali Afridi, welcomed the district officials and lauded the initiative, terming it a positive step towards the academic and moral development of students. He said such informative and social sessions help groom students into responsible citizens who understand their duties in society.
During the session, students were briefed on the constitutional importance of voting, the legal age, the procedure for casting a vote and the responsibilities of citizens in a democratic state. Interactive discussions and a question-and-answer segment allowed students to engage with the officials and clear their doubts regarding the electoral process.
Participants appreciated the initiative and expressed that such awareness programs play a critical role in preparing the youth for their future responsibilities. They stressed the need for more such sessions in other schools and colleges across the district.
After the event, certificates were distributed among the participants. The session ended on a note of encouragement and appreciation, with the hope that these young students would become active contributors to a democratic Pakistan.