Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday inaugurated the first Daanish Science and Technology School in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), marking a significant step in expanding educational opportunities for underprivileged children.
Speaking at the ceremony held in Bhimber on Wednesday, the prime minister highlighted the initiative’s objective of providing quality education to talented students from underdeveloped regions, a vision pioneered by former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.
“Thousands of students have graduated from Daanish schools and are now contributing in various fields,” Chief Minister Shehbaz said, adding that the schools provide free books, meals and boarding.
The Prime Minister announced plans to establish more daanish schools in AJK, including Neelum, and extend the initiative to Gilgit Baltistan, Balochistan and the merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He directed the authorities to complete the construction and operationalize the school within a year.
Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s political, moral and diplomatic support to the people of Kashmir. “The sacrifices of the people of Kashmir will not be in vain,” he said, emphasizing the dedication of Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir to support the Kashmir cause.
The Prime Minister also praised his government’s economic measures, citing reduction in inflation and policy rates, increase in exports and foreign remittances. “We have avoided default and are on track to complete the IMF program,” he said.
AJK Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq hailed the initiative, calling it a “game-changer” for the region. Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam confirmed the establishment of four Danish schools in AJK, which will facilitate access to modern education.
The event was attended by federal ministers, AJK legislators and Hurriyat leaders, underlining the government’s focus on promoting education as a cornerstone of national progress.
