ISLAMABAD: Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) President Sardar Tahir Mehmood has called upon the business community, philanthropists and overseas Pakistanis to join hands in expanding quality education and skills development for children in Balochistan, stressing that investing in the province’s youth is an investment in a stronger and more prosperous Pakistan.
Speaking at a programme organized under the auspices of ICCI in collaboration with Al Hijrah Schools Trust and Win Win Marketing themed at ‘ Insaniyat, Islamiyat and Pakistaniyat- A gathering united for education and a better future for Balochistan’, Sardar Tahir Mehmood said Balochistan is a critically important matter for Pakistan and that whenever the province’s development is concerned, society must go “two steps further” in extending its fullest support. He said Al Hijrah Schools Trust is a shining example of how sincere commitment, education and philanthropy can transform disadvantaged children into confident and productive citizens.
He paid tribute to founder Al Hijrah Schools Trust Abdul Kareem Saqib, saying that while the Sitara-e-Imtiaz was undoubtedly a great honour, his real achievement was the “constellation of bright stars” he had produced through years of dedication and character-building.
Al Hijrah founder Abdul Kareem Saqib highlighted the Trust’s remarkable journey from its establishment in Birmingham, UK, in 1988 to its expansion into Pakistan. Built around the principles of Humanity, Islam and Pakistani Identity, Al Hijrah was initially established to provide Muslim children living abroad with an educational environment combining Islamic values with modern learning.
He said the Trust subsequently brought this vision to Pakistan and, in 2001, entered into an agreement with the Government of Balochistan to establish its educational project in the province. He said that over the years, Al Hijrah has provided free education and training to thousands of children who otherwise had limited access to quality educational opportunities.
Many of its students have gone on to serve with distinction in institutions across Balochistan as well as federal organizations, enabling them to uplift not only their own families but also their wider communities. He urged the business community and philanthropists to view support for such institutions not merely as charity but as a strategic investment in human capital and the country’s future.
Dr. Yasir Masood Afaq, Chairman Al Hijrah Schools Trust, and Dr. Anees Jehangir Khan, focal person for the Pakistan Chapter also showcased the Trust’s longstanding contribution to Balochistan, particularly its commitment to children from poor and low-income families.
They emphasized that Al Hijrah’s experience demonstrates that meaningful educational change is possible when institutions remain committed to their mission over the long term. They said the Trust’s model goes beyond classroom education by focusing on character-building, discipline, skills and a strong sense of responsibility towards society and Pakistan.
The ICCI President said that Pakistan, with a population of around 250 million, offers enormous opportunities for investment and economic partnerships. Referring to his recent visit to Türkiye, he said foreign investors are showing growing interest in Pakistan because of its large consumer market, workforce, tariff concessions and comparatively lower operating costs.
