In Pakistan and beyond, tasks such as firefighting and disposing bombs are widely considered a man's job.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), however, a young woman is defying stereotypes by training to become the country's first ever female member of the Bomb Disposal Unit (BDU).

Rafia Qaseem Baig has volunteered for the daring feat because she had never seen a Pakistani or Asian woman member of the BDU.

Rafia wants to send a message about the bravery of KP's men and women.

"If KP's women are so daring, [imagine] what level [of courage] male soldiers will possess," she says.

She recalls that on the day she first joined the police, a blast had occurred near a sessions court. The explosion seven years ago was what drove her join the force and she hasn't looked back since.

Rafia's message to women across the country?

"A woman can turn any hardship into ease if she is willing."

She wishes to present a positive image of her country and the police force "practically".

For Rafia, it would be a matter of pride for her family if she were to sacrifice her life for the country while tackling explosives to save people's lives.

"My country is my home... the Pakistani nation is my family."

Must Read

Opinion

Editorial

Kurram conundrum
Updated 19 Jan, 2025

Kurram conundrum

If terrorists and sectarian groups — regardless of their confessional affiliations — had been neutralised earlier, we would not be at this juncture today.
EV policy
19 Jan, 2025

EV policy

IT is pleasantly surprising that the authorities are moving with such purpose to potentially revolutionise...
Varsity woes
19 Jan, 2025

Varsity woes

GIVEN that most bureaucrats in our country are not really known for contributions to pedagogical excellence, it ...
Al Qadir ruling
Updated 18 Jan, 2025

Al Qadir ruling

One wonders whether the case is as closed as PTI’s critics would have one believe.
Atlantic tragedy
Updated 18 Jan, 2025

Atlantic tragedy

The only long-term solution lies in addressing root causes of illegal migration: financial misery and a lack of economic opportunities at home.
Cheap promises?
Updated 18 Jan, 2025

Cheap promises?

If promise of the cheapest electricity tariff in the region is to be achieved, the government will need to stay the course, make bitter choices, and take responsibility for its decisions.