PESHAWAR: Speakers at an event at Islamia College University urged the graduates to do their part in presenting a positive image of Pashtun and the nation as a whole, stating that regional peace and stability would aid in refuting the narrative of militants.

The varsity’s Khyber union hall hosted a daylong celebration that had three distinct parts: a welcoming party for newcomers, the oath-taking ceremony for Pashtun Students Federation (PSF) office-bearers, and a poetic remembrance of Ajmal Khattak. The gathering was attended by a significant number of students, faculty members and political activists.

The speakers said youth should advance non-violence philosophy of Bacha Khan as he wanted an inclusive and forward looking Pashtun society. The event also included a book fair, where stalls featuring discounted titles on a range of subjects were set up.

Speaking at the event, ANP general secretary Mian Ifitkhar Hussain stated that young Pashtun students should take responsibility for promoting peace because Ajmal Khattak’s poetry was a perfect replication of Bacha Khan’s non-violent philosophy. About thirty poets praised Ajmal Khattak and called him a powerful revolutionary voice for significant social change. Shaukat Swati moderated the poetry recital session, which was led by prominent Pashto poet Fazal Momand.

The ceremony was headed by Awami National Party (ANP) MPA Nisar Baz. In addition to highlighting Ajmal Khattak’s political contributions, he also highlighted a number of facets of his student life and his groundbreaking poetry.

Prominent poets, including Farazana Rasul Sanam, Kalsoomzeb, Zeba Afridi, Safdar Ali, Rashid Khan, and Kabir Baidar Storay also performed their eloquent homages.

Published in Dawn, November 3rd, 2024