SHANGLA: Educational and public circles in Shangla have expressed concern over a proposal to allocate an additional portion of Government Technical College Alpurai to the University of Shangla, calling for both institutions to retain separate campuses.
The groups argue that protecting technical education is particularly important in a district where employment opportunities are limited and many young people seek work in coal mines. They say strengthening vocational education could help young people develop practical skills and pursue employment in sectors beyond hazardous mining work.
Calls to Protect Technical Education
Educational circles said the Government Technical College Alpurai was established to expand technical and vocational education in Shangla and should be allowed to continue developing without uncertainty over its campus or future.
They argued that reducing the college’s available space could affect efforts to provide practical training to local students and limit opportunities for young people seeking skills-based education.
According to the groups, the University of Shangla also requires space and facilities for its expansion, but they believe its needs should be addressed through separate arrangements rather than by reducing the space allocated to the technical college.
Employment Challenges in Shangla
Local educational and public representatives said limited employment opportunities have pushed many young people from Shangla toward labour-intensive work in coal mines outside the district.
They also highlighted the risks faced by workers in mining operations, saying accidents have resulted in deaths and caused significant hardship for affected families.
They said expanding access to technical and vocational education could provide young people with skills that may improve their employment opportunities and reduce reliance on dangerous occupations.
Demand for Separate Facilities
The groups have urged the provincial government, Higher Education Department, Technical Education Department and other relevant authorities to protect the existing status, location and educational activities of Government Technical College Alpurai.
They called for alternative arrangements to meet the University of Shangla’s expansion needs while allowing both institutions to operate separately.
Educational and public circles said technical skills and higher education both have an important role in improving employment opportunities and supporting the economic future of young people in Shangla.