Manan Mandokhail:
QUETTA: Speaking at an Iqbal Day event hosted by Taameer e Nau College in Quetta, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti called on young Pakistanis to embrace the philosophy of Allama Iqbal. He voiced concerns over foreign elements working to mislead the nation’s youth against the state, using propaganda to stir division. Bugti emphasized that through Iqbal’s concept of “Khudi” (selfhood), the youth can discern between truth and deception, drawing strength from knowledge and inquiry.
Reinforcing the idea of a united identity, Bugti remarked, “We are Pakistanis first, above all regional or ethnic identities.” He encouraged the youth to adhere to Iqbal’s vision of the “Shaheen,” symbolizing resilience and intellectual growth, to withstand these influences.
Bugti announced significant developments for education in Balochistan, including the creation of a Fazal Haq Mir BS faculty at the college and an annual grant of Rs 1 crore. Additionally, he introduced a unique “Meark-to-PhD” scholarship program aimed at students from families of civilian martyrs, as well as minorities and the transgender community. He also highlighted an interest-free loan initiative to support youth business ventures.
The Chief Minister urged students to counter terrorism through positive social media engagement, affirming that education would be their weapon against extremism. “We will honor our martyrs by establishing institutions in their name, standing united against those who wish to harm us,” he stated.
Provincial dignitaries, including Education Minister Rahila Hameed Khan Durrani and Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Naushirwani, joined the ceremony, underscoring the government’s commitment to empowering Balochistan’s youth through education and unity.
