“Pakistan not only means freedom and independence but the Muslim ideology which has to be preserved, which has come to us as a precious gift and treasure.”

On the auspicious occasion of 68th Independence Day, I extend my deepest greetings to the entire nation of Pakistan including Pakistani expatriate community living in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia who feels so vehemently about their motherland.

The creation of Pakistan was not a matter of chance but was acquired at the cost of enormous sacrifices.

The 14th of August not only marks a day of the revival of that conviction and devotion which paved the way for its existence on the globe but also the culmination of historical process, which had various layers i.e. political, cultural, civilizational, economic, social and psychological.

The way the Muslims of subcontinent confronted the hefty odd pitted in their way and rendered every sacrifice for the attainment of Pakistan gives us an idea of what the country means.

It hurts me deeply to mention that unfortunately today Pakistan is passing through the grimmest situations of its time.

Over the years, people of Pakistan have divided into different sects and creeds and forgotten the message of the father of the nation (Quaid-e-Azam) who emphasized on the importance of unity, faith and discipline.

Being an educationist myself, I strongly feel that mere education can exalt the level of our country to the zenith of that glory and grandeur which our forefathers had dreamed of.

Therefore, addressing the youth of this country I urge them to focus on their prime responsibility and equip them with the highest education of international standards.

Our country is constructed on the foundation of many precious lives, relations, emotions and feelings; therefore, it deserves the best.

Where this day is meant for celebration that we inhale the fresh and independent breeze, it is the national duty of each one of us to identify the agonies and sufferings of this country and what we can do both individually as well as collectively to pave the way toward development and make it emerge in its rightful place on the world’s map.

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Imran Raza Khan (Acting principal)

Pakistan International School — English Section, Jeddah