SHANGLA: Government Centennial Model High School Alpuri celebrated Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day with patriotic enthusiasm, highlighting the importance of national unity, education and responsible citizenship.
The event was jointly organised by Nida Pakistan/PPAF, the Youth Affairs Department, the District Education Office and the district administration.
Assistant Commissioner, Deputy District Education Officer Shafiqur Rehman, District Youth Officer Shangla Farhad Ali Khan, District Sports Officer Ejaz Ahmed, Principal Government Centennial Model High School Alpuri Syed Al-Hussain, ADEO Primary Fazal Wadood, teachers, members of the Parent-Teacher Council, students, parents, local residents and social workers attended the ceremony.
The school premises were decorated with national flags, badges in the colours of the Pakistani flag and colourful banners. Students dressed in green and white also participated enthusiastically, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The ceremony began with recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by Naat-e-Rasool (PBUH) and the national anthem. Students presented speeches, national songs, tableaux and other programmes highlighting the significance of Independence Day.
In their speeches, students discussed different phases of the Pakistan Movement, the struggle of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and other national leaders, as well as the sacrifices made by Muslims of the subcontinent for the creation of Pakistan.
The students said Pakistan emerged as a sovereign state after a historic struggle and countless sacrifices, making it the responsibility of every citizen to value the freedom achieved and contribute constructively to the country’s development.
They stressed that young people should focus on education, research, sports and other positive activities and use their abilities to contribute to Pakistan’s progress. Educated, skilled and responsible youth, they said, were essential for building a stronger and more prosperous country.
Addressing the gathering, speakers said August 14 should not be viewed merely as a day of celebration but also as an opportunity to reflect on citizens’ responsibilities towards the country.
They recalled the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence, including the hardships faced by millions during migration and the loss of countless lives.
The speakers urged the younger generation to understand the value of independence and work towards Pakistan’s stability, prosperity and development.
They also emphasised the importance of national unity, calling on citizens to rise above differences based on colour, race, language, region and other divisions and remain united as one Pakistani nation.
The speakers noted that addressing Pakistan’s challenges was not solely the responsibility of the government. Every citizen, they said, had a role to play by fulfilling their responsibilities, promoting tolerance, respecting the law and contributing positively to society.
The ceremony concluded with renewed pledges to uphold patriotism, national unity and responsible citizenship and to work collectively for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Pakistan.
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