MUZAFFARABAD: Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s (AJK) Minister for Higher Education Malik Zafar Iqbal on Wednesday said the government was working on the establishment of two more model colleges in Muzaffarabad and had introduced, for the first time, a uniform education policy in the territory despite limited resources.

He was addressing a ceremony held at the Government Model Science College, Upper Chhattar, in honour of Walija Nisar, described as the state’s youngest Central Superior Services (CSS) officer.

Congratulating Ms Nisar on her achievement, Mr Iqbal said only four girls from AJK had qualified for the prestigious CSS examination this year, terming their success a matter of pride for the state, parents, teachers and the education department.

He said the purpose of the ceremony was to inspire the younger generation to excel through hard work, perseverance, discipline and quality education.

The minister said the government was taking serious measures to improve the education system and provide basic facilities in educational institutions. He maintained that merit and transparency had been ensured in recruitments and that students from public sector institutions were achieving notable success after the introduction of the National Testing Service (NTS) system.

He said teachers played a fundamental role in character-building and training of students, adding that the more dedication educators showed in performing their duties, the greater success students would achieve.

The minister also praised the teaching and administrative staff of the Government Model Science College, Upper Chhattar, for their efforts.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Nisar, whose father had died in the 2005 earthquake, attributed her success to the support of her mother, teachers and friends, and advised students to remain focused on their studies and career goals.

The ceremony was attended by DPI Colleges Prof Dr Tariq Khan, Government Postgraduate College Principal Madam Nuzhat Rahim, Deputy Director Colleges Saba Qamar, Teachers Training Institute Director Shabnam Huma, former principal Tahira Maqbool, and principals and faculty members from various educational institutions, besides a large number of students.

Published in Dawn, May 14th, 2026