PM calls for promoting literacy, ensuring education for all

Sun, 8 Sep 2024, 10:52 AM

ISLAMABAD, Sep 08 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday called upon the nation to support the government’s efforts in promoting literacy and ensuring education for all, emphasizing the importance of building a bright future for the children and the country.

“Literacy is a fundamental human and constitutional right that guarantee the future of our country,” the prime minister said in a message on the occasion of International Literacy Day.

He said literacy was not merely the ability to read and write, it was a gateway to empowerment, economic opportunities, and active participation in society.

“Today, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing the education agenda, striving for a more informed and sustainable nation”, he said adding “Education is the backbone of our society. For this purpose, we have declared an educational emergency across the country, launched an enrollment campaign for students, and initiated mid-day meals for children in schools.”

To reduce the dropout rate and encourage every child to complete their education, the prime minister pointed out that the government had introduced scholarships and other incentives.

In this rapidly emerging world, developing literacy and skills in line with technology is inevitable; the prime minister said adding that the government was implementing a comprehensive plan to integrate technology into the educational system, ensuring that the youth were equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital economy.

He said private sector and civil society organizations were equal partners in the government’s efforts.

“By establishing effective partnerships, we can link education with employment and self-employment opportunities, creating a stronger and more inclusive workforce,” he added.

Mighty-K2: An arduous challenge for climbers

NNPS Desk

Sun, 8 Sep 2024, 10:21 AM

GILGIT-BALTISTAN, Sep 08 (APP): Located on Pakistan-China border, K2 stands tall at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet) as the second-highest mountain in the world and a jewel in Pakistan’s crown making it prominent among nations with mountain ranges.
Its sheer size, rugged terrain and unpredictable weather distinguish it from other peaks of the world making a formidable challenge for even the most experienced climbers.
First discovered in 1856 by the Great Trigonometric Survey of British India, led by Thomas Montgomery, the mountain was initially named “Montgomery’s Peak” but later renamed as K2, with “K” standing for Karakoram and “2” indicating it as the second highest peak in the range.
As climbing season kicks off, hundreds of local and foreign climbers make their way to Gilgit-Baltistan to climb eight-thousander peaks, including K2 with many facing severe weather and sometimes unfortunate accidents that also claim their lives.
According to Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism Department, over 1,700 permits had been issued to foreign tourists till July 02 to climb peaks in the region with 175 permits issued to scale K2.
K2 is a majestic mountain that commands respect and awe. But, its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather make it a challenge for climbers. However, with proper preparation and experience, K2 can be a rewarding and life-changing experience for those who dare to conquer it.
“As the second-highest mountain on Earth, K2 boasts a notorious reputation as the ‘Savage Mountain.’ Its fatality rate is around 23 deaths per 100 successful summits. Its death zone is particularly perilous, and its unpredictable weather, constant rock fall and difficult climbing sections contribute to its high mortality rate” remarked a senior Journalist Imtiaz Ali Taj.
He said after an increase in successful attempts, as of August 2023, an estimated more than 800 people have summited K2, with more than 100 deaths during attempted climbs.
“Climbing K2 is a serious undertaking that requires extensive mountaineering experience, physical endurance and mental toughness,” Imtiaz stated. “The climb typically takes around 60 to 90 days, depending on the route and weather conditions. Climbers must navigate treacherous terrain including steep rock faces, icy slopes and exposed ridges.”
The K2 was referred to as The Savage Mountain since 1953, when American climber and physicist George Bell, who would have nearly perished in a six-men fall on the mountain.
There are several routes to summit K2, each with its own unique challenges and risks. The most popular route is the Abruzzi Spur, also known as the Southeast Ridge. Other notable routes include the North Ridge, West Ridge, and South Face.
Guided or not, K2’s upper slopes are one of the least hospitable places on earth. And for anyone who wants to escape the crowds, the mountain is also host to nearly a dozen existing but rarely attempted routes, many of which climb from the mountain’s frighteningly remote Chinese side.
“K2 is a beast of mountains. It’s unforgiving and demands respect. I’ve climbed it twice and both times it has been a humbling experience. The terrain is treacherous and the weather is unpredictable. But the sense of accomplishment when you reach the summit is unparalleled,” narrated Kacho khursheed, a renowned climber from Baltistan region.
K2 is also known for its unpredictable and extreme weather conditions. Climbers must contend with frequent snowstorms, avalanches and temperatures as low as -60°C (-76°F). The weather can change quickly, making it essential for climbers to be prepared and flexible.
No matter whatever the comments globally and locally, K2 offers great adventure opportunities despite its harsh and unpredictable weather in winter and earns distinction for Pakistan.
Local people also see it as a gift of Nature for them as besides making them prominent across the world, K2 also brings in revenue for them. But, the same time they are worried about its beauty and environment.
“K2 is our pride and joy. It’s a source of inspiration for our community. We have seen many climbers coming and going and it is amazing to see how they push themselves to conquer this mountain,” said Muhammad Iqbal a local resident of Gojal Hunza.
“The stunning natural beauty of K2 also contributes to Pakistan’s global reputation as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, further boosting tourism,” Iqbal stated. “But we also worry about environmental impact and want to see sustainable tourism practices for climbers and our community.”
“The economic benefits of K2 are substantial as it attracts adventurers and tourists from around the world, generating revenue through trekking and climbing fees and jobs for local people,” Iqbal stated.
“K2 is a mighty and glamorous peak. It’s strong and powerful and we must respect it,” say the local people as they feel that increased traffic from guiding companies has heightened some of the ethical concerns that often accompany high-altitude climbing and labor especially when under-equipped and under-trained porters face accidents.
Therefore, it is urgently required to ensure safer expeditions as well as preservation of natural beauty and ecosystem of the area right from base camp to the top for our future generations to enjoy its beauty and wonders.

APP/ssb/maz (APP Feature Service)

PM pays tribute to Pakistan Navy on ‘Navy Day’

NNPS Desk

Sun, 8 Sep 2024, 9:54 AM

ISLAMABAD, Sep 08 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday commended the Pakistan Navy for their unwavering dedication to duty and passion for the country.

“On Navy Day, I extend my heartfelt felicitations to all members of the Pakistan Navy. Their steadfast commitment to protecting our maritime boundaries exemplifies their unwavering dedication to duty and passion for the country,” the prime minister wrote on his official X timeline.

He said regardless of the challenges they faced, their determination and spirit remained resolute. “We deeply value their service and sacrifices, and their contributions to safeguarding our maritime borders.”

Sepoy Subhan – Shining bright amidst galaxy of martyrs

NNPS Desk

Sun, 8 Sep 2024, 9:54 AM

ISLAMABAD, Sep 08 (APP): In the face of grave danger, the true character of a person is revealed. Some may hesitate, others may flee, but there are those rare souls who confront peril head-on, embodying the highest virtues of bravery and selflessness.
Sepoy Subhan Majeed was one such individual—a 22-year-old soldier from Muzaffarabad whose courage and sacrifice have etched his name in the annals of Pakistan’s history.
Born and raised in the serene valleys of Muzaffarabad, Subhan Majeed was known for his unwavering dedication to his family, his community and most importantly, his nation. From a young age, he displayed a strong sense of duty and a passion for serving his country that led him to join Pakistan Army.
His peers and superiors quickly recognized his potential, describing him as a disciplined and hardworking soldier, always ready to go above and beyond the call of duty.
Despite his youth, Sepoy Majeed understood the heavy responsibilities that came with wearing the uniform. He was fully aware of the threats facing Pakistan, particularly from those who sought to disrupt the peace and security of nation. His commitment to his country was absolute and he was determined to protect it, no matter whatever the cost.
The dawn of that tragic day (July 17, 2024) at Bannu Cantonment began like any other for Sepoy Majeed and his comrades. However, the peace was shattered when terrorists launched a sudden and vicious attack on the cantonment, aiming to create chaos and inflict as much damage as possible. Amid the explosions and gunfire, Majeed found himself at the forefront of confrontation.
According to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), attempt to enter the cantonment was effectively thwarted by security forces personnel in a swift reaction after the terrorists rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into perimeter wall of the cantonment. The suicide blast led to collapse of a portion of the wall and damaged adjoining infrastructure, also resulting in the martyrdom of eight soldiers.
As the attack unfolded, a grenade was hurled by one of the terrorists, landing dangerously close to Majeed’s fellow soldiers. In that split second, when most would have been taken aback, Sepoy Majeed’s instincts kicked in. Fully aware of the impending danger to his comrades, he made the ultimate decision and without a moment’s hesitation, he threw himself onto the grenade, absorbing full force of the explosion.
This selfless act of valor saved the lives of his fellow soldiers. His body shielded them from the deadly blast, but the cost was his own life. Sepoy Subhan Majeed’s sacrifice in that moment was not just an act of bravery—it was embodiment of the spirit of Pakistan Army, where safety and well-being of the nation and its people come above all.
Sepoy Subhan Majeed’s martyrdom is a stark reminder of the heavy price that is often paid by those serving in the armed forces. His actions on that fateful day in Bannu are a testament to his unyielding courage and his unwavering commitment to his comrades and his country. In sacrificing his life, he has ensured that his name will live on as a symbol of the highest ideals of military service.
His story resonates deeply not only in his hometown of Muzaffarabad but across the entire nation. The people of Pakistan mourn his loss, but they also celebrate his life—a life that was marked by dedication, honor and an extraordinary act of heroism.
Sepoy Subhan Majeed’s sacrifice will never be forgotten. With his sacrifice another mother lost her beloved son like thousands others whose dear ones had also rendered unmatched sacrifices. The nation owes a debt of gratitude to such young soldiers, whose actions have safeguarded the lives of many and upheld the dignity of Pakistan Army. Story of Subhan shaheed and many others would be told for generations to come, inspiring future soldiers and citizens alike to serve their country with the same level of devotion and bravery. (Mat Allah Almighty rest their souls in peace and grant them Jannah).
As the sons of soil continue rendering sacrifices, some disgruntled elements are trying to malign armed forces to fulfill their nefarious designs in line with enemy’s despicable agenda. Oblivious to the sentiments of nationalism and the pangs that families of such soldiers suffer, these anti-state elements have their own axe to grind on the behest of their foreign masters.
These few fail to understand that as far as daring sons like Subhan Majeed are present in the ranks of our security forces their every bid would be thwarted. This is also a message for insane elements in the rank and file of propagators that whatever their agenda might be, ultimately they will have to eat dust.
In honoring Sepoy Subhan Majeed, we not only pay tribute to his memory but also reaffirm our commitment to the values he stood for. His life, though tragically cut short, was a beacon of light in the darkest of times, and his legacy will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all Pakistanis.

BRT faces Rs.3.2 billion annual losses amid struggles to serve passengers with disabilities, women

NNPS Desk

Sun, 8 Sep 2024, 9:50 AM

PESHAWAR, Sep 08 (APP): The ongoing shortage of buses within Peshawar’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system exacerbated the difficulties faced by passengers, particularly those with disabilities and women, as they navigate the city’s public transport network that are facing about Rs 3.2 annual losses.
The scrapping of private transport options and long delayed in completion of BRT’s commercial malls at Dabgari and Hayatabad has further intensified these massive challenges, leading to a noticeable strain on the BRT system’s capacity.
Among those passengers struggling is Khurshid Khan, a 43-year-old government employee who mostly relied on the BRT for his daily commute from Chamkani to Hayatabad — a journey spanning approximately 27 kilometers.
As a person with a disability, Khurshid Khan has encountered significant discomfort and difficulty during his travel due to a lack of adequate seating facilities. The reserved seats for individuals with disabilities are often occupied by other passengers, forcing him to stand for nearly one and a half hours during his commute.
“I experience severe pain in my back and legs while standing for such a long duration,” Khan said. “It is disheartening to see the seats designated for people like me being taken by others. The overcrowding on the BRT buses, especially during peak hours, has become a daily struggle, often leading to uncomfortable confrontations between general passengers and those with disabilities.”
The situation has been compounded by the BRT’s financial woes, including substantial losses due to subsidies and delays in the development of commercial plazas, which had further strained the system’s resources.
The limited number of buses and shortage of busses have led to frequent overcrowding, with many passengers left standing and struggling to find a seat, exacerbating the difficulties for those who are already vulnerable including girl students.
In the mornings and evenings, when the passenger rush is at its peak, the issue becomes even more pronounced. The limited availability of dedicated seating for persons with disabilities, coupled with the overcrowded conditions, has resulted in a regular exchange of heated words between passengers and individuals with disabilities and students of professional colleges besides government employees immensely.
Sadaf Kamal, Spokeswoman of Trans Peshawar said the occupation of reserved seats of women and special persons by general passengers was a big challenge, adding special bars were erected in BRT buses to address this issue. She claimed that about 350,000 passengers were travelling daily in BRT and providing seats to all commuters was difficult. Keeping in view of passengers’ load, she said the buses were increased to 244 in main corridor and feeder routes.
To a question about huge financial losses suffering by BRT, Sadaf said that BRT was facing about Rs3.2 billion annual losses mainly due to granting of subsidy to passengers. She said that an average Rs 23 revenue was being received per passenger against Rs80 expenditure between Chamkani-Hayatabad route, adding Trans Peshawar pays about Rs 700 million as sales tax on services besides upto Rs400 million to Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and approximately Rs 400 million electricity charges per year.
Trans Peshawar also generate Rs 20 million revenue from advertisement after signing an agreement with a popular advertisement agency, she said, adding about Rs1.5 billion are being returned back to the government kitty under these heads.
Sadaf claimed at national and international level, almost all such mass transit projects went into losses due to massive subsidies granted by the respective governments to facilitate poor passengers and general public at large.
Ikhtair Wali Khan, PML-N KP spokesperson said that Rs 3.2 billion annual losses by BRT was a major burden on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s exchequer that was already facing huge foreign loans burdens.
“The poor feasibility of BRT’s corridor have plunged Peshawar into traffic jams especially at morning and evening, creating great problems for thousands of government employees, students, general public, labourers and passengers coming to provincial capital from different districts for jobs on daily basis.”
The PMLN leader claimed that the long delay and slow paced work at BRT’s commercial malls at Chamkani, Dabgari Gardens and Hayatabad Peshawar were causing huge financial losses to the provincial exchequer. With completion of these large malls sprawling on several acres with facilities of spaces for offices, business and car parking could generate about Rs700 million as revenue.
Besides vehicular and noise pollution, he said that black smoke being emitted by dozens of bricks kiln and marble factories at Peshawar have further aggrieved problems for Peshawarties exposed to various environmental and pollution hazards.
Ikhtair Wali said that one of the reasons of the BRT losses was unavailability of fueling and charging facilities of its buses especially at Hayatabad Mall. “These buses have to return at late night or early morning to main Chamkani Mall for fuelling and charging of batteries, which create negative effects on its revenue.”
Sadaf said that 503 smoke emitting wagons and busses were scrapped after launching of BRT at Peshawar and compensation were paid to the owners besides jobs to its drivers and conductors.
Due to BRT, she said the number of women passengers were increased from two percent to 30 percents besides positive social, educational and economic effects in lives of Peshawarties.
There are also plans of launching of similar projects at Abbotabad, Swat and DI Khan for which huge investment would be required. She said its services were extended to Nasirbagh Road to link Regi Model Town with BRT main corridor and plan to extend it to Pabbi tehsil of Nowshera are under active consideration.
BRT’s services have been recognized both at national and international level and received five international awards including Institute for transport development and policy as gold standard award, sustainable transport award in 2022-24, prize for cities and best smart ticketing program, she said.
The current state of the BRT highlighted the pressing need for addressing the issue of huge financial losses, increasing capacity and better management of the transport system to address the needs of all commuters.

President Zardari vows to ensure free education for all children

Kamran Muraad

Sat, 7 Sep 2024, 11:59 PM

ISLAMABAD, Sep 7 (APP):President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday reiterated his pledge to make education accessible to all, regardless of circumstances, in line with Article 25A of the Constitution, which mandates free and compulsory education for children aged five to sixteen.

In his message for International Literacy Day on September 8, 2024, the president stated, “ the State is constitutionally obligated to provide free and compulsory education to all children aged five to sixteen years.”

On International Literacy Day, President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the transformative impact of education and literacy as crucial to the nation’s future. This year’s theme, “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace,” was highlighted by the president to underscore the vital role of literacy in fostering unity, cultural appreciation, and peaceful coexistence.

In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s declaration of a National Educational Emergency in response to the urgent challenge of illiteracy.

This initiative aims to enroll out-of-school children and educate 70 million adults. He noted that under the Prime Minister’s Roshan Pakistan Literacy Drive, the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) has launched the “Each One Teach One” (EOTO) Program, which encourages every literate citizen to teach at least one illiterate person.

In order to enhance literacy, the government is providing Conditional Cash Transfers up to the higher secondary level through Benazir Taleemi Wazaif for educating underprivileged children. Stipends up to Rs 4000 for boys and Rs 4500 for girls per quarter are being offered in all districts of Pakistan. Currently, 9.7 million children are enrolled under the programme.

Furthermore, 102,000 scholarships have been given to students from low-income families to ensure that all qualified students have access to undergraduate education.

On International Literacy Day, it is essential to renew commitment to advancing the universal right to education. By working together, it is possible to ensure that every Pakistani has the chance to learn, develop, and contribute to a more educated, inclusive, and prosperous nation.

Each individual plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the country. May these collective efforts foster lasting peace, mutual understanding, and a brighter future for everyone, said the president.

PPP render great sacrifices for democracy: Nisar Khuhro

Kamran Muraad

Sat, 7 Sep 2024, 11:57 PM

HYDERABAD, Sep 07 (APP):The President of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Sindh and Member of Sindh Assembly Nisar Ahmed Khuhro has said that the PPP was the country’s largest democratic party, having made significant sacrifices for democracy.

He maintained that party workers have endured imprisonment, lashes and even bullets, their contributions and sacrifices must be acknowledged. Khuhro expressed these views while addressing a public gathering in Tando Allahyar.

He said that the party was established by Zulfiquar Ali Bhutto and well managed by Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, we have learned politics from her. He said that shaheed Benazir Bhutto always considered Tandoalahyar as second Lyari, for this we should make the party stronger in Tando Allahyar.

He also praised the leadership of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, saying that the young PPP leader has the full potential to steer the country through tough times. The PPP leader mentioned that the party has democratically elected district presidents and office-bearers, ensuring that they address the issues of the public. He urged the party representatives to maintain close contact with the people and be present in their joys and sorrows.

On this occasion, Member of Sindh Assembly Imdad Pitafi addressed the gathering and said that we were grateful to the Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari who trusted our family and gave us the district chairmanship of the party. He pledged to work alongside other office-bearers and the public to serve the people. The newly elected president of PPP Tando Allahyar Zaheer Pitafi thanked the workers and senior leaders for placing their trust in him. He assured the public that any issue faced by them in any institution would be resolved on a priority basis. Members of the Sindh Assembly Dr. Sikandar Shoro, Ali Hassan Hingorjo and other party leaders also addressed the gathering.

Earlier, Nisar Khuhro, Ali Hassan Hingorjo, Imdad Pitafi, Dr. Sikandar Shoro and the newly elected President of PPP Tando Allahyar Zaheer Pitafi, led a rally of party workers and leaders in vehicles to Tando Allahyar, where they were warmly welcomed. The rally then proceeded to the venue and joined the public gathering