The Role of AKDN, Especially AKESP, in the Development of Chitral – By: Manzoor Ali Shah
Chitral, a mountainous and remote district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has historically faced challenges of geographical isolation, limited resources, and low access to quality education. In this context, the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), and particularly the Aga Khan Education Service, Pakistan (AKESP), has played a transformative role. For decades, AKESP has not only filled educational gaps but has also set new standards for learning in the region. Its contribution goes far beyond classrooms, shaping human capital, values, and the future of Chitral.
- Provision of Quality Education at a Subsidized Rate.
One of the most significant contributions of AKESP is making quality education accessible and affordable. Private systems like Beacon House and Roots School System offer excellent academics, but their high fee structures remain out of reach for most families in Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan. AKESP, being a non-profit arm of AKDN, operates on a mission of service, not profit. It delivers education comparable to, and often better than, these elite systems, but at a highly subsidized and economical rate. This model has ensured that even middle and lower-income families can provide their children with modern, high-standard schooling. By removing the financial barrier, AKESP has democratized quality education across the district.
- Activity-Based Learning: Learning by Doing
AKESP schools moved away from the traditional “rote learning” model that dominates many schools. Instead, they adopted Activity-Based Learning and student-centered pedagogies. In AKESP classrooms, students engage in science experiments, group projects, debates, art, and field work. This approach builds critical thinking, creativity, communication, and problem-solving skills. For students in Chitral, who were once limited to textbooks only, Activity Based Learning has opened minds and created confident learners who can compete nationally. This practical method is one of the key reasons for AKESP’s strong academic outcomes.
- Zero Tolerance for Cheating: The AKU-EB Model
Academic integrity is a core value in AKESP schools, especially in AKU Examination Board (AKU-EB) exams. There is a complete “no concept of cheating” culture. Strict supervision, ethical training, and a focus on conceptual understanding ensure that students earn their results through hard work. This is a model that other boards can learn from. At a time when BISE Kohat Chairman Mr. Imtiaz Ayub is struggling against the menace of cheating in board exams, adopting the AKU-EB model of secure conduct, trained invigilators, and concept-based papers could bring major reform. If AKESP’s examination integrity can be replicated, it would restore public trust in our government examination systems.
- Full Bright Scholarships for Talented, Financially Weak Students.
Talent should never be lost due to poverty. AKESP runs a robust scholarship and financial aid program for bright students from low-income families. These “Full Bright” scholarships cover tuition and other costs, ensuring that deserving students are not left behind. This policy has produced doctors, engineers, teachers, and civil servants from humble backgrounds in Chitral. It is a direct investment in merit and social mobility, and it reflects AKDN’s philosophy of uplifting communities from within.
- Study Tours and National Exposure.
Education is not limited to Chitral’s valleys. AKESP provides students with great opportunities to explore Pakistan through mutual study tour programs with top-level institutions in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. These exchanges expose Chitrali students to modern universities, research labs, museums, and diverse cultures. It broadens their vision, builds confidence, and motivates them to aim higher. For many students, it is their first exposure beyond the mountains, and it becomes a turning point in their academic journey.
- Fostering Student Self-Made Concepts.
Perhaps AKESP’s most lasting impact is its focus on student self-made concepts. Instead of spoon-feeding, students are encouraged to think independently, design projects, lead clubs, and solve local problems. This creates a generation of self-reliant, innovative, and responsible citizens. In Chitral, AKESP alumni are now teachers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who carry forward the same spirit of initiative and service.
Conclusion.
The development of Chitral cannot be measured only in roads or infrastructure. Real development is in human minds. Through affordable quality education, activity-based learning, exam integrity, scholarships, national exposure, and self-reliance, AKESP under AKDN has become a pillar of Chitral’s progress. We remain deeply thankful to Brigadier (Retd.) Khosh Muhammad Sir and the entire AKESP team for their tireless efforts. By providing world-class education at a subsidized rate, AKESP has given Chitral its greatest asset: educated, ethical, and empowered youth. AKDN institutions deserve our full appreciation and continued support.
Manzoor Ali Shah
Governor Model School
Sadda District Kurram
