The Aga Khan Education Service, Pakistan held groundbreaking ceremonies for 2 new state-of-the-art buildings being added to the Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Booni, and Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Mastuj in Chitral. The expansion will increase access to quality education and extend the school from high to higher secondary.
President of the Ismaili Council for Pakistan, Hafiz Sherali, presided over the ceremonies as the chief guest, while Vice President Hussein Tajani was the guest of honour. Heads of the district administration of Chitral, CEO Aga Khan Education Service, Pakistan, Imtiaz Momin along with senior management, leadership of the Aga Khan Regional and Local Council and community notables including Mr. Afzal Ali, participated in the event.
The new buildings at the two schools will increase the combined capacity by over 1000 students - AKHSS Booni by over 600 students and AKHSS Mastuj by over 400 students. Altogether, more than 40 modern and spacious classrooms, 8 science and computer laboratories, 2 libraries and offices and other facilities will be constructed.
The buildings are designed to enhance the learning experience with multi-purpose and flexible learning spaces reflecting the rapid changes in modern teaching methodologies. It will facilitate students to question, explore and collaborate which are necessary foundational skills to equip students to meet the complex challenges of the 21st century.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, President Hafiz Sherali highlighted AKES,P’s commitment to providing modern facilities to enhance students’ learning experience, in addition to maintaining a high standard of education. He expressed the hope that students studying in these schools will excel and realise their dreams and potential.
Planned over 53,000 sq ft, the new facilities have been designed as green buildings to work in harmony with the local environment. Solar panels will be installed to provide renewable energy while insulated building material and the use of natural light and air will ensure minimal energy consumption and carbon footprint. The structures will also be seismic-resistant and act as shelters for surrounding communities in the event of natural disasters.
Thanking the chief guest and other dignitaries, AKES,P’s General Manager for Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, Brigadier (retd.) Khush Muhammad said that the school expansions will significantly enhance educational opportunities in the area, giving young and talented students from the surrounding towns and villages the chance to fulfill their great potential, and serve their nation.
