Category: Islamabad

Islamabad: Public sector institutions have witnessed a remarkable influx of students from leading private schools last year which is a testament to the transformative initiatives taken by the government to raise standards and bridge the gap between public and private education.

This was shared by Principal of Islamabad College for Girls (ICG), F-6/2, Professor Sabah Faisal during an exclusive interview with reporter.

Sabah Faisal's passion for the institution was palpable as she recounted its journey from a modest junior school in 1968, with only 64 students, to its current status as a premier educational establishment catering to nearly 6,000 girls.

'This institution is more than just a school; it's a sanctuary for our students. Parents feel secure sending their daughters here, knowing they are in a safe, supportive environment,' she added.

Professor Faisal attributes this growth to the government's commitment to fostering female education. 'When the government focuses on providing girls with quality education in secure environments, institutions like ours flourish. We strive to uphold that trust and provide opportunities that help our students thrive.'

The principal emphasized the importance of preparing students for a rapidly evolving world. 'Our students should graduate with skills that make them financially independent. The government's reforms are ensuring that our youth, especially girls, are equipped with the tools they need to succeed.'

Among the initiatives at ICG, the Software Technology Park (e-Rozgar Center) stands out. Developed in collaboration with the Pakistan Software Export Board, this facility empowers students to explore entrepreneurship, run small businesses, and connect with clients-all within a safe, solar-powered space equipped with free high-speed internet.

Another transformative project, she mentioned, is the Google Center of Excellence, launched in partnership with Tech Valley and Google. 'This lab enables students to learn and collaborate using Chromebooks, which are budget-friendly and cyber-safe,' she explained. 'It's about giving them the tools to learn in real-time and stay ahead in a digital world.'

The Principal shared that ICG has also adopted Smart Classrooms, integrating e-learning platforms introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. These interactive tools enhance learning experiences and prepare students for a technology-driven future.

The STEM and Robotics Labs are further examples of ICG's forward-thinking approach. By introducing coding, artificial intelligence, and robotics into the curriculum, the school is encouraging students to consider careers in emerging fields.

For Professor Faisal, education goes beyond academics. 'We aim to build confident, well-rounded individuals,' she said.

The school prioritizes extracurricular activities, from public speaking programs to cultural education, ensuring students are prepared for life on a global stage.

Physical health is also a key focus. 'A healthy mind needs a healthy body,' she emphasized. Facilities like gyms, sports fields, martial arts classes, and free meal programs ensure students' overall well-being.

As an alumna of ICG, Professor Faisal's connection to the institution runs deep. 'This school shaped my life,' she shared with pride. 'If I could achieve so much with the limited resources available in my time, today's girls, with access to far greater opportunities, can achieve even more.'

Her leadership and the government's dedication to female education have placed ICG at the forefront of public institutions in Pakistan. 'The recent International Girls' Conference hosted in Pakistan, with delegates from 43 countries, highlighted our commitment to advancing girls' education. We are determined to bring even the most marginalized regions forward', she observed.

Professor Faisal spoke of her vision for ICG. 'We are not just educating students; we are empowering them. Pakistan has the potential to lead the world in girls' education, and ICG is proud to contribute to that journey.'

Under her leadership, ICG is more than a school; it's a testament to what public education can achieve with vision and dedication. It stands as a beacon of hope for countless young girls, lighting the way to a brighter, more empowered future.

Islamabad: The gas sale prices for various consumer categories will remain unchanged, including domestic, special roti tandoor, General Industry (Process), Commercial, CNG, Cement, fertiliser, and Power sectors.

However, starting February 1, 2025, the gas sale price for the General Industry (Captive) has been revised from Rs 3,000/MMBTU to Rs 3,500/MMBTU.

A spokesperson for the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) said that the Federal Government issued the revised gas sale price advice in response to OGRA's determinations regarding the Review of the Estimated Revenue Requirement for Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) and Sui Southern Gas Company Limited (SSGCL) for the fiscal year 2024-25.

Islamabad: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi denies attending anti-China event in US, said " he did not attend any anti-China event in the United States". He added that opponents are just spreading venomous propaganda.

While addressing the media in Houston, USA, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi clarified that he participated in a youth event, which was given a wrong impression through propaganda.

He emphasized that such propaganda does not matter as he did not attend any such event. He highlighted that the purpose of his visit was to develop an effective plan against terrorism through cooperation with American politicians.

He stressed that the war against terrorism is not just Pakistan's fight but a collective battle. He warned that anyone who takes up arms against Pakistan will be dealt with iron hands.

The Interior Minister expressed concern that the members of US House of Representatives are being incited against Pakistan.

He advised politicians to refrain from harming Pakistan's interests. He stated that the meetings with Congress members were very positive.

Islamabad: The Pakistan team is in Sharjah, UAE, to participate in the 11th Sharjah International Taekwondo Training Camp, which underway till February 5.

The camp has brought together teams from various countries, including Russia, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, UAE, and Uzbekistan, with more nations expected to join in the coming days, said a press release.

During the camp, CEO of the Pakistan Taekwondo Federation, Omar Saeed, met with Eng. Sulaiman Abdul Rehman Al Haji, Chairman of Individual Sports at the Sharjah Sports Club, and Coach Abdullah Hatim. Saeed expressed his appreciation for their unwavering support and contributions to the Pakistan National Team.

The 11th Sharjah International Taekwondo Training Camp will provide a valuable opportunity for athletes to enhance their skills, engage in high-level training sessions, and foster international collaboration in the sport.

Islamabad: Vice-Chancellor, Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Professor Dr. Nasir Mahmood, emphasized the importance of translations in promoting Islamic values, traditions, and culture.

He stated that translation is the most effective means of intellectual progress and serves as a window to understanding other languages and civilizations. Therefore, the process of translations in Pakistan needs to be expanded, and scholars and the religious community can play an exemplary role in this noble cause.

Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood expressed these views while addressing the closing ceremony of a five-day training workshop titled "Translation as a Science," held yesterday at the university.

He further stated that the promotion of Islamic values and traditions has, unfortunately, remained a distant dream, which now needs to be realized.

The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the elevated status of religious scholars in society, noting that their words carry weight, and people trust and believe what they say.

He urged religious scholars to take the lead in promoting Islamic values and contributing to societal reform.

Dr. Nasir Mahmood thanked Dr. Ghulam Ali, Director of the Center for Languages and Translation Studies, and Fakhruddin Akhunzada, Executive Director of the Forum for Language Initiatives, for organizing the workshop and congratulated them on its success.

The workshop was organized by the university's Center for Languages and Translation Studies in collaboration with the Forum for Language Initiatives.

It provided translation training to participants from 12 different languages.

Participants expressed their views, describing the training as highly beneficial.

They shared that they had learned the principles and techniques of translation within a short period. They also requested that such training workshops continue in the future.

Dr. Ghulam Ali, Director of the Center for Languages and Translation Studies, Fakhruddin Akhunzada, Executive Director of the Forum for Language Initiatives, faculty member Dr. Lubna Umar, and others also spoke at the event.

They emphasized the use of technological tools in translations and the importance of maintaining neutrality in the translation process.

Dr. Ghulam Ali mentioned that the Vice-Chancellor's support was instrumental in the success of the workshop.

Fakhruddin Akhunzada stated that this was their second collaborative event with Allama Iqbal Open University, which had been highly successful. He expressed a commitment to continuing such events and training workshops in the future.

The closing ceremony of the five-day workshop was attended by the University's Registrar, Raja Umar Younis along with all principal officers and faculty members.

Islamabad: A prestigious ceremony was held at the Collectorate of Customs, Customs house Peshawar, to mark International Customs Day.

Member taxpayer Services, Saeed Akram, graced the event as the chief guest,said a press release issued here on Sunday.

Addressing the gathering, Saeed Akram stated that International Customs Day is celebrated every year under the auspices of the World Customs Organization (WCO).

Each year, a specific theme is introduced, which guides global customs efforts. This year's theme, 'Customs delivering on its commitment to efficiency, security, and prosperity,' holds particular importance in the context of Pakistan.

He emphasized that the primary goal of Pakistan Customs is to facilitate trade, ensure national security, and curb illegal activities. Pakistan Customs plays a pivotal role in the national economy by contributing significantly to revenue collection.

Approximately 45% of the total revenue collected by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) comes from Pakistan Customs, making its role vital for the country's development, security, and efficiency.

Saeed Akram highlighted that Pakistan Customs was the first in the region to initiate the automation of its systems, establishing the country's first fully automated collectorate.

He noted that Pakistan introduced automation at a time when many developed countries lacked such advanced systems.

This journey continued with the introduction of an indigenous automation program, further simplifying and enhancing trade processes.

Discussing the Single Window System, he explained that this platform integrates all departments involved in customs clearance under one roof. Instead of navigating through multiple departments, traders can now complete all necessary processes, including obtaining NOCs and other documentation, in one place through the Single Window System.

Saeed Akram remarked that Pakistan Customs is not only a pioneer in automation but also a global leader in this field.

He revealed that last year, FBR collected PKR 9.3 trillion in revenue and set this year's target at 40% higher than the previous year.

He expressed gratitude that all efforts are underway to achieve this ambitious goal.

He further mentioned that Pakistan Customs plays a key role in the digital transformation of the FBR to ensure equal opportunities for all traders.

He proudly stated that Pakistan successfully achieved its December 2024 target and is confident of meeting future goals as well.

In conclusion, Saeed Akram reiterated the collective commitment to putting Pakistan on the path to progress, envisioning a day when the country will be counted among the developed nations of the world, earning global respect and recognition.

At the end of the ceremony, the chief guest distributed shields to the families of Customs martyrs and awarded certificates to Customs officials for their outstanding performance in the passing-out parade.