The All Pakistan Private Schools Association has announced a Gaza March at Faisal Mosque, Islamabad, on October 7, with organizers expecting more than 40,000 students and teachers to participate. The Gaza March is described as a show of solidarity with Palestinians and a public effort to engage young people on the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Speakers at the National Press Club said the march aims to inform children about the reported destruction in Gaza over the past two years and the toll on civilians, especially children, women and youth. Organizers emphasized that educational institutions will use the event to raise awareness about the impact of ongoing violence and to foster empathy among students through peaceful demonstration.
All Pakistan Private Schools Association president Afzal Babar, patron and North Punjab president Iftikhar Ali Haider and other representatives briefed the media at the NPC about the logistical plans and objectives. They linked heightened international attention on Pakistan after the May 10 Pakistan-India encounter to increased confidence in the Muslim world and said a comparatively small number of Palestinian fighters have stood against more powerful opponents, while civilians continue to make sacrifices for the freedom of the first Qibla.
Organizers said the Gaza March also intends to challenge the silence of national leaders and to awaken a sense of national honour among citizens. The association called on authorities to facilitate a peaceful, organized march and to recognize the role of schools and teachers in civic engagement. The Gaza March will be carried out with a focus on student participation and educational messaging at the heart of the event.
