MINGORA: In order to revive the old jirga system, a 21-member dispute resolution council (DRC) was formed here on Wednesday with the aim to resolve differences among the citizens through negotiation process.

The council members, including retired government servants, ulema, lawyers and local elders, took oath of their responsibility here at Mingora police station.

Commissioner Malakand division Mohammad Afsar Khan administered oath to the council members while DIG Malakand division Abdullah Khan, Swat district police officer Sher Akbar and local elders were also present on the occasion.

The council members include retired SP Naveed Iqbal, retired Col Abdul Ghafar, Maulana Sadiq Ahmad, Shah Muslim advocate, Prof Mian Noor Nawab, Prof Fazal Subhan, Jani Malak, Inamur Rahman, Dr Shabir Mian, ex-chairman municipal committee Malik Behram and elders of the district.

Talking to mediapersons, commissioner Afsar Khan said that jirga system had been a part of the Pakhtun society since long, adding that they were taking steps to recognise it officially.

He said that the DRC would work independently with the aim to resolve disputes among the people of the district.

“We are hopeful that the council will deliver,” Mr Khan said.

The Swat DPO said that the council would also assist the police in resolving disputes.

SEMINAR: The University of Swat on Wednesday held a seminar on ‘higher education opportunities and challenges’ here at Odigram campus.

Prof Imdadullah of the University of Peshawar was the guest speaker, who gave a presentation on education opportunities abroad. Vice-chancellor Prof Jahanzeb Khan was also present on the occasion.

Prof Imdad briefed the students about the admission process in higher education institutions of different countries, particularly the US and European countries.

The students were also informed about the possible challenges, which might hinder their studies abroad.

Published in Dawn, May 22nd, 2014