Kurram: The only government girls’ high school in Manato, Central Kurram, has shut down due to a shortage of funds, leaving hundreds of girls without access to education. The school, constructed by the Pakistan Army to empower women in the conflict-ridden tribal district, now stands as an empty concrete structure, failing to serve its intended purpose.
The school was built by the Pakistan Army as part of efforts to promote girls’ education in the region. Local tribal elders initially welcomed the project, hoping it would operate under army supervision, similar to other Army Public Schools. However, after construction, the school remained non-functional for a long time.
Last year, the local administration revived the school using funds from the Parent-Teacher Council (PTC). Four teachers were appointed, and over 300 girls enrolled. The initiative was spearheaded by District Education Officer Samina Altaf and her deputy, Previn Yasmeen, who worked tirelessly to promote girls’ education in the area.
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The allocated PTC fund of 1 million rupees has now been exhausted, forcing the school to close once again. This closure threatens the future of hundreds of girls who are already battling societal challenges, including restrictive tribal norms and customs.
Despite the lack of proper infrastructure and resources, the girls at the school performed exceptionally well in recent 9th and 10th-grade exams. This success highlights the potential of the community’s girls when given access to education.
Local elders and activists are now urging the Pakistan Army, education authorities, and district administration to take over the school’s operations. They believe that army supervision, similar to other Army Public Schools, would ensure the school’s sustainability and continued impact.
The closure of the school underscores the urgent need for sustainable funding and support for girls’ education in Central Kurram. Without immediate intervention, the dreams and futures of hundreds of girls hang in the balance.
