KARACHI, Feb 16 (APP): Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and States and Frontier Regions Amir Muqam on Sunday called upon the United Nations (UN) agencies to fulfill their commitment of repatriating Afghan refugees or shifting them to another country as well as resolving the issues of countries hosted them.
While addressing the Afghan refugees during his visit to Commissionerate Afghan Refugees Sindh here, he said that the people of third world countries were given shelter in Pakistan, and it was promised that they would be shifted to another country. He said that they must be shifted on war-footing basis.
He warned that those Afghanis, who were living illegally in the country would have to leave Pakistan.
The Federal Minister Amir Muqam said that around 3 million Afghanis had been hosted in the country for many years. He said, ‘It is a fact that you will have to go.’
He said that all had to play their role to send Afghan refugees back to their country with respect and dignity.
He said, ‘You and we will also be happy if you return back to your home country.’
Muqam said that Pakistan was being sent corpse. He said that the Afghan government should realize the situation. He said that the resources should be used in favour of both the countries. He also urged the Afghan refugees to speak up against the use of Afghan land for Pakistan. He further said that they were also your (Afghan refugees) enemies, who were making things worse.
The minister said, ‘Peace is in favour of Pakistan and Afghanistan.’ While re-urging the Afghan refugees, he asked them to keep a vigil on anti-state and anti-Pakistan elements.
Amir Muqam said that the present federal government struggled and saved the country from becoming default. He said that the government along with coalition partners was trying to pull the country out of challenges.
He said that the Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) had a vision. He said that inflation had dropped. The Minister said that interest rate was 22 percent a year ago and now it had reached at 12 percent. He also lauded the overseas Pakistanis for sending25 percent more remittances to Pakistan rejecting a negative agenda against Pakistan by some local elements.
He further said that the future of Pakistan was bright.
The Acting Commissioner Afghan Refugees Sindh Qaimuddin Ansari and Representative of Afghan Refugees in Sindh Abdullah Bukhair also spoke on the occasion.
SAFRON Minister urges UN agencies to fulfill their commitment of shifting Afghan refugees
Minister reviews progress on Nara Canal project, aims to boost water supply and reduce losses
SUKKUR, Feb 16 (APP):Sindh Minister for Planning, Development and Energy, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah on Sunday visited the Nara Canal project to review its progress. The initial estimated cost of the project was Rs. 2.8 billion, but after design changes, the cost increased to Rs. 5.4 billion.
During the briefing, it was told that the Nara Canal’s capacity would increase from 13,649 cusecs to 18,000 cusecs. The lining of the canal will reduce water seepage by 10-12% and improve water flow. The project will ensure a stable water supply for farmers in the tail-end areas and reduce maintenance costs.
The Nara Canal is a vital component of Sindh’s irrigation system, stretching 364 km and irrigating over 2 million acres of land. The project’s completion is expected to bring significant benefits to the agricultural sector and local communities.
17 outlaws arrested; drugs & weapons seized
ISLAMABAD, Feb 16 (APP):Islamabad Capital Police arrested 17 outlaws involved in various criminal activities, including drug peddling and possession of illegal weapons, and recovered narcotics and arms from their possession on Sunday.
A public relations officer told APP that the Aabpara, Sabzi Mandi, Khanna, Kirpa, Margalla, Koral, and Bhara Kahu police teams took legal action against the accused.
He said that police arrested seven suspects—Luqman Khan, Nazir, Amjid, Zahoor, Ali Iqbal, Azhar, and Munir—and recovered 1,270 grams of heroin, 335 grams of ice, one gun, one rifle, and one pistol from their possession.
Moreover, he said, seven absconders were also arrested from various areas of the city during the last 24 hours.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations Muhammad Shoaib Khan said that the Islamabad Police is actively working to ensure the safety of citizens’ lives and property in the federal capital, emphasizing that no elements will be allowed to disrupt public peace.
SSP Shoaib said protecting the lives, property, and dignity of citizens is the top priority of the Islamabad Police.
KP government announces 1627 teachers vacancies for Hazara division
ABBOTTABAD, Feb 16 (APP):The government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Sunday initiated the immediate recruitment of 16,000 teachers in the education department, with 1627 vacancies available across various districts of the Hazara Division.
According to details, 469 positions were vacant in Abbottabad, 223 in Battagram, 295 in Haripur, 90 in Kolai Palis, 79 in Kohistan Upper, 53 in Kohistan Lower, 305 in Mansehra, and 76 in Torghar.
The available teaching positions include CT 172, DM (Drawing Master) 94, PET (Physical Education Teacher) 95, AT (Arabic Teacher) 83, TT 75, Qari 63, grade 12 CTE 41 and grade 12 PST (Primary School Teacher) 1,004
All interested candidates were encouraged to review the relevant district advertisements and submit their applications accordingly.
Police arrest three in Civil Line double murder case
RAWALPINDI, Feb 16 (APP):Rawalpindi district police here on Sunday arrested three accused allegedly involved in double murder case of Civil Line area, said a police spokesman.
He informed that City Police Officer (CPO) Rawalpindi Syed Khalid Hamdani talking notice of the double murder incident directed the police officers to immediately arrest the accused and sought a report from Superintendent of Police, Potohar.
Police conducting raids managed to net three including the main accused namely Aryan involved in the double murder case.
The deceased were identified as Iqbal and Sajil.
According to preliminary investigation, the incident occurred due to a fight between children.
Raids are being conducted to arrest other accused involved in the incident, SP Potohar said adding, the accused in custody are being interrogated and challan will be submitted with solid evidence.
Two Pakistani students in China praised for life-saving act
BEIJING, Feb 16 (APP):Two Pakistani students at Gannan Medical University in China, Yousaf Khan and Muhammad Rafeeullah Jawaad, have been lauded for their courageous and benevolent action in saving the life of an elderly man who suffered a sudden medical emergency at a Shanghai railway station.
The incident occurred in the early hours of February 7 at Shanghai Songjiang Railway Station. Yousaf and Jawaad, during their trip to Shanghai, noticed an elderly man lying unconscious on the ground. Recognizing the urgency, they immediately rushed to his aid. Upon assessing the man, they found him unresponsive, with no breathing, a faint pulse, and cyanotic lips – clear indicators of a life-threatening condition.
Without hesitation, Yousaf began performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation while Jawaad assisted by monitoring the man’s condition. After four rounds of CPR, the elderly man gradually regained consciousness and began breathing again. The two students remained by his side, ensuring his stability until an ambulance arrived to transport him to the hospital for further medical care.
Their swift and professional response earned them widespread admiration from onlookers, police officers, and medical personnel at the scene. Many praised their courage, composure, and medical expertise, which proved critical in saving the man’s life, China Economic Net (CEN) reported on Sunday.
Hailed from the KPK Province of Pakistan, Yousaf and Jawaad are pursuing their bachelor’s degrees in clinical medicine at Gannan Medical University in southern China.
“The university’s focus on ethics and morality has always motivated us to do good deeds. Our medical studies here have equipped us with the knowledge and skills to provide first aid and save lives in critical situations,” Jawaad said.
Yousaf, who performed CPR for the first time during the incident, expressed immense pride and joy at being able to save a life. “Saving lives is the sacred duty of every doctor and medical student, and I would do it again without hesitation in any similar situation,” he said.
Arrangements finalized for organizing Pakistan’s largest student convention, expo
ISLAMABAD, Feb 16 (APP):The arrangements for organizing the 5th International Students Convention and Expo 2025 from February 23, 2025 have been finalized. The three-days event is being jointly organized by the Inter University Consortium for Promotion of Social Sciences Pakistan (IUCPSS) and Government College University Faisalabad in collaboration with the University of Faisalabad and other partner organisations and institutions. This convention follows the success of its previous editions, which were held in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and Northern Sindh, said a news release issued here Sunday.
The convention will serve as a global platform for students, researchers, academicians, educators, innovators, and industry leaders from Pakistan and around the world. Over three days, the event will inspire change, accelerate collaboration, and promote cultural exchange.
A variety of activities will take place, including student competitions, workshops, Model United Nations on climae change, city tours, indoor sports, innovation and industrial stalls, an education expo, and entertainment segments.
The student competitions will allow young participants to showcase their talent and innovation. Indoor sports will promote teamwork and healthy competition. Innovation and industrial stalls will display cutting-edge ideas and advancements. The education expo will help students explore academic opportunities and programs. The entertainment segments will provide a mix of enjoyment and meaningful interaction.
The 5th International Students Convention and Expo 2025 are expected to attract over 30,000 students. It will bring together 150 universities, institutions, and industries on one platform.
The event will provide students with opportunities to demonstrate their potential, gain exposure, and engage in academic, social, and professional interactions.
This convention aims to create an exciting and dynamic environment for students, educators, and industry leaders. It will also contribute to building a positive global image of youth.
The event promises to be a transformative experience, fostering collaboration, learning, and innovation.
Capital Police bust four car lifter gangs, hands over keys to owners
ISLAMABAD, Feb 16 (APP):Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations, Islamabad Capital Police, Muhammad Shoaib Khan announced the arrest of 12 suspects from four active car theft gangs during a press conference at the Police Lines Headquarters.
An official told APP on Sunday that the Anti-Vehicle Lifting Unit (AVLU) carried out effective operations, leading to the arrest of the accused identified as Muhammad Junaid, Noman, Abdul Rehman, Hamza Iqbal, Babar Khan, Arsalan, Muhammad Jibran, Muhammad Luqman, Muhammad Fayyaz, Shafqat Ali, Arsalan Anwar, and Noman Gulzar. He said that police teams also recovered 20 stolen vehicles of various models from their possession.
Speaking at a press conference, SSP Shoaib said that modern technology was utilized to track down the suspects, including reviewing previous records, setting up surprise checkpoints, and conducting decoy operations. He added that the accused were involved in car thefts by breaking windows, using master keys, and specifically targeting down-model vehicles such as Corolla, Mehran, Khyber, Bolan, and Cultus.
SSP Shoaib further stated that the arrested suspects would be charged based on solid evidence to ensure their conviction. Islamabad Police remains committed to curbing car theft, and any criminal activities will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
On this occasion, SSP Shoaib handed over the keys of the recovered vehicles to their rightful owners. The vehicle owners expressed their gratitude to Islamabad Police for their efforts in recovering their stolen property.
Civil society for an increase in number of Pink Buses
ISLAMABAD, Feb 16 (APP):Advocate Aliya Faheem on Sunday said that civil society has urged for an increase in the number of Pink Buses for females which was a reliable, safe and easy travel option.
Talking to APP, she praised the initiative, saying it is very important for women’s convenience. The pink bus service safely transport girls, female teachers and other working women from rural areas to urban centers.
Aliya Faheem said the tagline, “No Fear, No Barrier,” perfectly captures the spirit of the project.
She said this initiative would meet the shortage of buses to cater to the needs of all females, she added.
ICT admin bans boating in Rawal Dam for public safety
ISLAMABAD, Feb 16 (APP):The district administration of Islamabad on Sunday has imposed ban on all boating activities in Rawal Dam, citing public safety concerns.
In a recent crackdown, the Islamabad district administration took strict action against boating activities in Rawal Dam. The operation led to the confiscation of one engine float and three boats. Four individuals were arrested and transferred to the Bani Gala police station for further legal proceedings.
The ban on boating was imposed under Section 144, which prohibits such activities to ensure public safety.
In this regard, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad, Irfan Memon, emphasized that the restriction is necessary to protect citizens from potential risks associated with unauthorized boating.
The district administration has urged the residents to comply with the ban and avoid engaging in any boating activities in the area. The enforcement of this regulation aims to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all visitors to Rawal Dam.
This move follows concerns over the increasing number of unauthorized boating incidents, which have raised alarms about the potential dangers to public safety. The administration has reiterated its commitment to maintaining order and protecting the well-being of the community.
Residents are encouraged to adhere to the guidelines and report any violations to the authorities. The district administration has assured that strict measures would be taken against those who fail to comply with the ban.
DG IAEA concludes visit to Pakistan
ISLAMABAD, Feb 16 (APP):Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, visited Pakistan on 12–13 February 2025, according to the Foreign Office Spokesperson.
During the visit, DG IAEA called on the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister.
Discussions focused on expanding cooperation between Pakistan and the IAEA, particularly on the peaceful uses of nuclear technology to mitigate climate change.
Director General Grossi held formal talks with the Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and the Chairman of the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA). He was briefed on Pakistan’s advancements in nuclear science and technology, including its contributions in agriculture, healthcare and energy production.
In Islamabad, DG IAEA participated in the International Conference organized by the Pakistan-chapter of Women in Nuclear Field (WIN-Pakistan). Mr. Grossi praised the country’s efforts in promoting women participation in the nuclear and allied disciplines. He also delivered a key note address at a seminar on the “Role of Nuclear Science and Technology in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals”, organized by the think tank Strategic Vision Institute (SVI).
In Lahore, DG IAEA visited the Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Oncology Lahore (INMOL). He inaugurated a new radio pharmaceutical laboratory and announced technical assistance under the IAEA’s ‘Rays of Hope’ initiative.
DG IAEA also visited under construction Chashma Power Plant unit 5 (C-5). He termed Pakistan’s nuclear power generation programme as one of the most successful programmes in the world. Grossi also inaugurated a radioactive waste incinerator at Chashma.
Director General Grossi last visited Pakistan in 2023. Pakistan is a founding member of the IAEA and enjoys a robust cooperation programme with the agency. Pakistan actively contributes to the IAEA’s decision-making process as a member of its Board of Governors. IAEA is recognized globally as the Specialized United Nations Agency for cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear technology.
Female students delegation visits CTD HQ, lauds anti-terror efforts
ISLAMABAD, Feb 16 (APP):A delegation of female students from F-7/4 College, volunteering with the Islamabad Traffic Police under the Friends of Police Program, visited the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Headquarters for an educational and awareness tour.
A public relation officer told APP on Sunday that the delegation was given a detailed tour of various departments of the Counter Terrorism Department and was given a detailed briefing regarding the working of the institution.
The delegation was told how the CTD uses modern technology and professional skills to suppress terrorist elements and ensure the safety of citizens. CTD experts also informed the delegation about the modern equipment and techniques used to deal with terrorism.
The delegation was further told that the CTD was always ready to maintain national security. The delegation of female students appreciated the role and sacrifices of the police in the anti-terrorism efforts and paid tribute to the services of the department.
On this occasion, senior police officers said that the aim of the Friends of Police program was to create social awareness among the youth and make them aware of the performance of law enforcement departments and their role in national security.
They further said that the aim of this educational and awareness tour was to make the young generation aware of the measures taken against terrorism and the security measures taken by the police.
Experts stress for technology integration in education system
ISLAMABAD, Feb 16 (APP):Experts at a recent webinar emphasized the necessity of integrating technology into education, stating that those who fail to adapt will be left behind. They called for the modernization of teaching materials, advanced teacher training, and the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in academia.
The webinar, organized by Alliance Pakistan on Sunday, brought together university professors, school and college educators, IT specialists, and policymakers to discuss the opportunities and challenges posed by technological advancements in education.
Addressing the Webinar, Dr. Asad Munir from Allama Iqbal Open University remarked that while AI has brought a revolution, it remains a “half-cooked recipe,” with many aspects still in the experimental phase. In Pakistan, students are largely misusing AI for plagiarized assignments rather than productive learning.
He announced that Allama Iqbal Open University is developing a system to prevent the submission of copied assignments. He also noted that high-quality AI tools are expensive and inaccessible to many, while most AI technologies available in Pakistan come with built-in cultural and ideological biases from their countries of origin. “Until we develop our own AI tools, we will remain dependent on external technology,” he said.
Early Childhood Education Expert at the Ministry of Education, Dr. Shahida Kiani, noted that AI has eased the burden of non-teaching tasks for educators, allowing them to focus more on teaching. However, she emphasized the importance of training teachers and students to use AI responsibly.
Education specialist Dr. Sher Ali highlighted the unintended consequences of technological advancements, such as climate change and a decline in students’ and teachers’ ability to work hard. “Technology has made learning easier, but it has also reduced the effort students and teachers put into academic work,” he said.
IT specialist Muhammad Kashif expressed concern over how technology is shaping society. “We were supposed to use technology, but unfortunately, technology is using us,” he remarked. He pointed out that many students and teachers lack access to essential gadgets for online learning. He also urged parents to monitor their children’s use of AI tools, cautioning against giving them unrestricted access.
Another education expert Mazhar Malik stressed the need to extend technological advancements to underprivileged regions. He acknowledged that challenges related to AI integration will be resolved over time but urged policymakers to ensure equitable access to digital resources.
Concluding the session, Dr. Tariq Khan, Convener of Alliance Pakistan, thanked the participants and remarked that the world is currently witnessing an era of “Techno-Feudalism and Techno-Capitalism.” He stated that global competition is increasingly driven by technological advancements.
“Pakistan must integrate technology into education at the grassroots level,” he asserted. “Our curriculum, teaching methods, and grading systems must align with modern technology to ensure global competitiveness.
Educationist Saima Awan, journalists Shabbir Hussain and Husna Khattak also addressed the webinar.
Pakistan’s 24th relief consignment to Gaza arrives at El-Arish airport
CAIRO, Feb 16 (APP):On the directions of the Prime Minister, Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in collaboration with Al-Khidmat Foundation continues to provide much needed humanitarian and relief assistance to the brotherly people of Gaza Strip.
A special aircraft from Pakistan carrying 55 tons of relief supplies landed at El-Arish International Airport, Egypt on Sunday. The relief consignment includes bell and winterized tents as well as tarpaulin sheets.
Officers from embassy of Pakistan, Cairo received the relief consignment, and handed over to Egyptian Red Crescent Society for onward dispatch to Palestinian Red Crescent Society inside Gaza.
An official of embassy of Pakistan in Cairo, Egypt said, “Pakistan will continue to stand with the Palestinian brothers and sisters and provide much needed humanitarian assistance. We are thankful to Egypt for their crucial support. More consignments from the Government and people of Pakistan are on their way and will be delivered soon to the Palestinians inside Gaza. “
OIC, COMSTECH to host first networking meeting of Water Centres of Excellence in Islamabad
ISLAMABAD, Feb 16 (APP):The General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Jeddah, in collaboration with the OIC Ministerial Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH), is set to organize the first meeting for Networking of Water Centers of Excellence in OIC Member States, that will take place on 24 and 25 February 2025 at COMSTECH.
This significant initiative aims to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and coordinated action among leading water research and development institutions across OIC member states. The meeting is being organized in accordance with Resolution No. 1/4-ICWM/2018, which was adopted during the 4th Islamic Conference of Ministers responsible for water in Cairo, Egypt, from 14-16 October 2018. It also follows the recommendations of the 2nd meeting of the OIC Water Council, held in Cairo on 21-22 October 2019, said a news release issued here Sunday.
The meeting will bring together experts, policymakers, and representatives from water centres of excellence across the OIC region. The participants will discuss pressing water-related challenges and explore innovative solutions for sustainable water management. The event will host representatives from multiple countries, including Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Togo, Turkiye, Uzbekistan, UAE and Yemen, among other countries.
Water security remains a critical issue for many OIC member states. Challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, pollution, and inefficient resource management continue to threaten economic and social development.
This inaugural networking event aims to strengthen institutional linkages, facilitate joint research initiatives, and enhance capacity-building efforts among member states.
The key objectives of this important meeting include establishing a collaborative network of water centres of excellence within the OIC framework,promoting knowledge exchange on best practices in water conservation, management, and policy development and strengthening cooperation between governments, research institutions, and international organizations for sustainable water solutions.
The event will feature expert panel discussions, technical presentations, and interactive networking sessions. It will provide a platform for meaningful engagement and the development of long-term partnerships.
As the host of this pivotal meeting, COMSTECH continues to play a leading role in enhancing scientific and technological cooperation among OIC member states. This initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the OIC in advancing science and technology for sustainable development.
AIOU to hold ‘Education Expo’ on February 26
ISLAMABAD, Feb 16 (APP):Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) is always striving for the promotion of education, providing students with information about admissions to various universities while also organizing events to showcase their talents.
Continuing this tradition, the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Nasir Mahmood on Sunday approved the organization of Education Expo 2025, which will be held on February 26 at the University’s main campus in Islamabad under the auspices of the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization.
The expo will feature stalls from various universities and industrial institutions, providing information about admissions and highlighting revolutionary advancements in modern research, sustainable development, and technology. In addition to educational and industrial stalls, food stalls will also be set up.
A poster competition will be held among students from different educational institutions as part of the expo.
The most exciting feature of this grand event will be a surprise lucky draw, where fortunate winners will receive a cash prize of Rs. 50,000/- along with other valuable prizes.
Students who wish to participate in the lucky draw should immediately contact the Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialization at the university to seize this opportunity.
Entry to the expo will be free. Students from schools, colleges, and universities along with their parents are welcome to attend. Families from the twin cities are also invited to participate in the event.
ASAS International School hosts ‘Power Play Day 2025’ to highlight students’ skills
ISLAMABAD, Feb 16 (APP):ASAS International School on Sunday hosted its “Power Play Day 2025,” an event designed to highlight the skills, teamwork, and physical abilities of its students through various sports, recreational activities, and extracurricular events.
The event was graced by the presence of the School Director, Dr. Arshad Zia and Branch Head Saba Mubashar, said a press release.
Also joining the event were distinguished guests, including Deputy Director General of Pakistan Sports Board, Syed Naveed ur Rehman, and former Member of National Assembly, Asia Nisar. These esteemed guests appreciated the hard work and enthusiasm of the students and commended the participation of children from the Inclusive Education Group.
Saba Mubashar, in her opening speech, welcomed the guests and parents, stating, “Today is a special occasion for us. Through this event, we aim to teach our children not only the value of participating in sports but also the importance of teamwork, hard work, and self-confidence. Our inclusive Education Group children have shown remarkable performances in this event, and we take pride in our unwavering commitment for making our educational environment inclusive and accessible for every child.”
ASAS International School’s mission is to create an educational space where every child can excel, regardless of their background or abilities. The school firmly believed in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect for diversity, and equal opportunity. ASAS International School is the only institution in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi that prepares children with intellectual disabilities and autism to sit in mainstream classes.
Dr. Arshad Zia, in his message, said, “Power Play Day 2025 showcased the best of our children’s hard work and dedication. This event’s aim is not only to promote physical sports but also to improve both the mental and physical well-being of our students. It was a moment of pride for us to see children from our Special Education Group participating in the event. We believe that events like these foster self-confidence and enhance the overall development of our students. Sports play a vital role in children’s well-being, and we are delighted to witness not only our mainstream children but also our Special Education Group children actively engaging in the activities, showcasing their talents. This event proves that every child has access to opportunities for growth and success.”
Chief Guests Syed Naveed ur Rehman and Asia Nisar also shared their messages, “We are pleased to see that ASAS International School has provided children with the opportunity to showcase their talents through physical activities. The inclusion of children with special needs in sports is a significant step forward. In today’s world, where children spend much of their time on smartphones and technology, we must emphasize the importance of keeping children engaged in physical activities to maintain both their mental and physical health.”
Children from Preschool to O-Level participated enthusiastically in various games and activities, demonstrating their abilities and spirit.
Power Play Day 2025 had not only promoted sports but also provided a memorable experience for the children, celebrating their hard work and enthusiasm.
ASAS International School will continue to organize such events in the future to further promote sports and extracurricular activities, allowing children’s physical, mental, and creative abilities to be nurtured and developed in the best possible way.
Punjab Highway Patrol personnel accused of assaulting APP cameraman in Sargodha
SARGODHA, Feb 16 (APP):In a shocking incident, personnel of the Punjab Highway Patrol (PHP) allegedly subjected a cameraman from the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), to illegal violence and harassment.
The incident occurred at the PHP post near Chak Jod Kandiwala, Sargodha, the other day, sparking outrage among the journalist community and prompting calls for strict action against the involved officers.
When reached for comments, Reader Superintendent Police (PHP) Sargodha, Ehsaanullah, informed APP that an inquiry has been launched into the matter, with a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) overseeing the investigation.
According to reports, Azhar Hussain, the APP cameraman stationed in Sargodha, was traveling with his family on a motorcycle from Sargodha to Lalian when he was stopped at the PHP checkpoint.
PHP constables Waqar and Sadaf reportedly began taking photographs of Hussain and his family without any legal justification. When Hussain questioned their actions, the situation escalated.
The constables allegedly seized his motorcycle, confiscated his mobile phone and identity card, and subjected him and his family to physical assault.
Witnesses claim that the officers also issued death threats, further intensifying the ordeal.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from the journalist community.
Zulfiqar Hashmi, President of the Sargodha Union of Journalists (Dastoor), and Rana Ashraf, General Secretary of the Sargodha Union of Journalists (Workers), expressed deep concern over the incident.
They demanded immediate legal action against the involved officers and vowed to continue protests until justice is served.
Hashmi emphasized APP’s role as a national and international news service, stating, “APP serves the state not only at the national level but also on the global stage. We stand in complete solidarity with the cameraman and demand accountability for this unacceptable behavior.”
The journalist community in Sargodha has called on higher authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
The incident has raised serious questions about the conduct of law enforcement personnel and the safety of journalists performing their duties.
As the story unfolds, pressure mounts on the Punjab Police to address the allegations and restore public confidence in their commitment to upholding the rule of law.
Pakistan must leverage Turkey’s food market to boost exports: FPCCI Convener
LAHORE, Feb 16 (APP):Convener Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry regional committee on Food Shahid Imran has said that Pakistan, an agrarian economy with vast agricultural resources, must fully exploit the untapped food import potential of Turkey to bolster Pak export leading to economic growth and strengthen bilateral trade ties.
Talking to a delegation of food producers led by Abdul Rehman, here on Sunday, he said
Turkey, strategically located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offers a lucrative market
for Pakistani food products due to its growing demand for diverse and high-quality agricultural goods.
By leveraging its strengths in producing staples such as rice, wheat, fruits, and seafood,
Pakistan can position itself as a key supplier in the Turkish market. To achieve this goal,
Pakistan needs to address several challenges, including improving food quality standards,
enhancing packaging, and ensuring compliance with international certifications.
He said the government and private sector must collaborate to establish robust trade channels, streamline export procedures, and invest in marketing campaigns to promote Pakistani products in Turkey.
By tapping into this untapped potential, Pakistan can not only increase its export
revenue but also foster stronger economic and diplomatic relations with Turkey, creating
a win-win scenario for both countries, he added.
Ahsan kneels in respect to present award to Sania, celebrating her inspiring journey
NAROWAL, Feb 16 (APP): In a deeply inspiring moment, Sania Abbas, a dedicated teacher at Narowal College for Women, received the Best Teacher Award in recognition of her commitment to education.
Sania, who stands only 36 inches tall, has defied societal and financial challenges to pursue her passion for learning and teaching.
Her journey is a testament to resilience and determination, proving that no obstacle is too great for those with an unbreakable spirit.
During the award ceremony, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal personally presented the honor to Sania Abbas.
In a moment that touched the hearts of all present, he chose to kneel while handing over the award, ensuring that she felt respected, valued, and equal.
This extraordinary gesture of humility was met with thunderous applause, symbolizing the minister’s deep commitment to recognizing talent regardless of physical stature or societal perceptions.
Ahsan Iqbal, a native of Narowal, has played a pioneering role in transforming the educational landscape of the region.
His visionary leadership has led to the establishment of the University of Narowal, the University of Engineering & Technology Narowal, and a state-of-the-art Medical College, ensuring that students—especially girls from underprivileged backgrounds—have access to quality higher education without the need to leave their hometowns.
Today, over 70% of students enrolled in these institutions are young women, many of whom would have been unable to pursue their dreams due to financial and cultural constraints.
Beyond education, his contributions extend to healthcare and youth development.
The modern District Headquarters Hospital in Narowal provides quality medical care to the community, and a cancer hospital, launched in 2024, is now in advanced stages of development to offer world-class treatment.
Additionally, the construction of a world-class sports complex is fostering young athletes and encouraging a culture of physical well-being and excellence.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the importance of perseverance and education in shaping a progressive society. “No power in the world can stand in the way of human determination,” he remarked, highlighting how Sania Abbas’s journey serves as an inspiration to millions across Pakistan.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding education, supporting youth development, and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
The recognition of Sania Abbas is not just an acknowledgement of her achievements but a symbol of the changing landscape of education in Pakistan. It reflects a broader movement led by visionaries like Ahsan Iqbal, who believe that education, empowerment, and equality are the keys to a prosperous future.