Syed Ali Shah:
QUETTA: A devastating fire has reduced a significant portion of the ancient Government Science College in Balochistan to ashes, sparking widespread outrage and calls for an independent investigation. The blaze, which officials attribute to a short circuit, has not only destroyed the historic institution but has also jeopardized the education of thousands of students who relied on its resources.
Balochistan Education Minister Raheela Durrani, who visited the charred remains of the college, ordered the formation of an inquiry committee led by Secretary of Higher Education Hafiz Muhammad Tahir. However, the move has done little to assuage the fears and concerns of those who have dedicated their lives to this institution.
“Today, our house burnt and turned into ashes,” lamented Raziq Ulfat Kakar, a professor at the college, tears streaming down his face as he surveyed the destruction. “This college was more than just a building; it was a sanctuary for knowledge, a place where countless minds were nurtured. We demand a thorough and independent investigation into this incident. We need answers, not just for us but for the thousands of students whose future now hangs in the balance.”
Khalil Khan, another senior professor, echoed these sentiments with a deep sense of loss. “It’s as if our home has been burned down,” he said, his voice filled with grief. “This college has stood for generations, and its destruction is a blow to the entire educational community. We urgently need the government to prioritize its reconstruction and repair. But more than that, we need transparency and accountability. An independent inquiry is crucial to ensure that the truth comes out and that this never happens again.”
The loss of Government Science College is a tragedy that affects not just the faculty and students, but the entire province. The institution has been a beacon of education in Balochistan for decades, and its destruction is a setback for the community. As the inquiry committee begins its work, there are growing demands for an independent investigation to ensure that the true cause of the fire is uncovered and that those responsible are held accountable.
The professors, students, and citizens of Balochistan are united in their call for justice. They urge the government to take immediate action to rebuild the college and restore it to its former glory, ensuring that the future of education in the province remains bright.