ISLAMABAD: The Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) celebrated Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day with events at schools and colleges operating under the regulatory body.
The central ceremony was held at Islamabad Model College for Girls (IMCG), F-8/1, where FDE Director General Javed Iqbal Mirza was the chief guest. FDE directors and a large number of principals, teachers and students attended the event.
The programme featured a vibrant array of student performances, including patriotic tableaux, Urdu and English speeches, milli songs, a national song and a medley. Performances by students of IMCG F-8/1 and Islamabad Model College for Boys (IMCB), F-8/4, paid tribute to the sacrifices of the nation’s founding generation. A statement said similar events were held at other institutions as well.
Speaking on the occasion, the DG FDE congratulated students, teachers and the entire FDE community on Independence Day. He appreciated the students’ performances and commended their teachers for their dedication, hard work and commitment in preparing them for the Independence Day programme.
He paid special tribute to teachers, noting that nations were built in classrooms and that teachers had a fundamental role in shaping the character, knowledge, discipline and sense of responsibility of the younger generation.
Mr Mirza urged teachers to continue inspiring students to become responsible, capable and patriotic citizens who could contribute meaningfully to Pakistan’s progress.
Reflecting on the significance of Marka-i-Haq, he said the nation had once again demonstrated its resilience, unity and resolve in defending the motherland. He paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces and the steadfast support of the Pakistani nation, emphasising that the spirit displayed in Marka-i-Haq should inspire the younger generation to serve the country with the same determination, discipline and sense of responsibility.
The DG FDE called upon students to equip themselves with knowledge, science, technology, research, innovation, entrepreneurship and strong moral character, stressing that the younger generation would determine the future trajectory of Pakistan.
Emphasising the pivotal role of education in nation-building, the DG said FDE was committed to nurturing students who would not only excel academically but also become responsible citizens, innovators, professionals and leaders capable of contributing meaningfully to Pakistan’s development.
The ceremony also included a tree plantation activity by the DG FDE, symbolising hope, growth and the collective commitment of the younger generation towards a greener and sustainable Pakistan.
College Principal Prof Aasiya Rafique Malik also spoke on the occasion. A cake-cutting ceremony was also held to mark the occasion.
Published in Dawn, August 15th, 2026
