SWABI: Speakers at a function here on Monday paid rich tribute to Islamia College Peshawar (ICP) founder Sir Sahibzada Abdul Qayyum, saying that his services would always be remembered and the college would continue to be a symbol of his mission and vision.

They were speaking at a ceremony held at his mausoleum of Sahibzada Abdul Qayyum to mark his 162nd birth anniversary.

Former lawmakers, lawyers, elders, academic, social figures and members of Swabi and Topi press clubs participated.

Earlier, ICP faculty and students also visited his residence in Topi village, paying tribute to the great reformer, who enlightened the Pakhtuns with the contemporary education.

Mr Qayyum’s family members welcomed the guests.

Mr Qayyum was born on Dec 12, 1863 in Topi to Sahibzada Abdul Rauf.

All of Mr Qayyum’s items in use, including books, chairs, tables, notebooks, etc., have been preserved in a room and his family shares these with anyone who needs it.

The participants at the function said Mr Qayyum considered education essential for the development of Pakhtun society, and started a practical struggle to bring them out of the darkness of ignorance.

“Under this vision, he founded ICP in 1913, which later became the academic and cultural identity of the entire region,” said Arif Shah of the Swabi Press Club.

The participants said Mr Qayyum’s struggle laid the foundation of a new era of education in the Pakhtun region.

The speakers said he was a true benefactor of the Pakhtun nation who laid the foundation of an educational institution that was still illuminating the lives of thousands of youth today.

Published in Dawn, December 16th, 2025