�THE LAMP OF KNOWLEDGE�

In concern to Chitral Times an unexpected threat, behalf of MPA that is really against of the ideology of Islam. But Islam do fully favored of quality education and our Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) quoted that, �Seek Knowledge if it�s in China�. In this regard we should accumulately condemn the remark of religious cum political leader about The Aga Khan University-Professional Development Center in Chitral. The under question Aga Khan University�s Professional Development Center to be built in Chitral town which is inestimable gift to all the people of Chitral in general and particular.
Now I would like to mention here to understand the concept behind the establishment of (AKU-PDC), it is important to remember the history of Aga Khan University-Institute of Development Center (AKU-IED). The AKU-IED come into operation in July 1993, and alive to improve the quality of education in developing countries through research, educational programmes, capacity building, partnerships, policy initiatives and a commitment to wider social development. AKU-IED was established in the context of a �continued and deepening decline in the quality, effectiveness, relevance and outreach of education system in Pakistan and elsewhere in the developing world in the face of growing number of children and shrinking resources�. Key education indicators illustrated the poor quality of education, low and inequitable enrollment and retention rates, irrelevant curricula compounded by ineffective assessment, which is turn fostered rote learning and passive student roles, and poorly resourced school staffed by inadequately turned and supported teachers.
Let me discuss to know you about the Aga Khan University-Professional Development Center (AKU-PDC), which is going to be built in Chitral town soon. The AKU-PDC is a collaborative partnership between The Aga Khan education Service (AKESP), and the Aga Khan University-Institute of Educational Development (AKU-IED). It was developed with generous support from the European Commission and The Aga Khan Foundation. The goal of AKU-PDC is to improve the quality of education in Pakistan, Northern Areas and Chitral. Its aim is to become a vanguard in educational reform, to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of schools and of education system as a whole. It also provides a source of inspiration, expertise and support to develop educational innovations to strengthen the quality of educational services in Chitral. AKU- PDC also trains educational leaders for effective decision- making, planning and implementation. For the establishment of this University teacher, educator and the people of different region are going to benefit from new education system and the offering of a high quality, general education will be an important step in filling a critical gap in our higher education programmes.
Keeping these point of views I am going to request all my brilliant Chitrali brothers and sisters don�t perceive such kind of instructions from any person. It is a great opportunity for us to get quality of education from this university and provide better service for the citizens of Chitral. It is my application, especially to the young generation of Chitral, don�t come in the domination of such narrow minded & critical person and all of whom, who are against and opposite of solidarity and enlightenment in the area.
I hope that the AKU-PDC will built soon in Chitral town and also expect that its establishment will lead to improve the quality of teaching and learning in schools, develop human resources with a particular emphasis on gender issues, carry out research, develop innovative programmes, a center of excellence and quality in Chitral.

Sincerely,
Ashiq Ali Amir Sirang
University of Karachi, Karachi