A Historic School in Bannu That Needs Immediate Attention
By Abdul Salam Betab
“Bannu is currently ahead in the field of education. In exams across the province, the students of Bannu consistently outperform others. Similarly, in sports, players from Bannu have proven their excellence, and in almost all major sports, they dominate. Although there are challenges and difficulties, it cannot be denied that the people of Bannu possess immense talent.”
This was stated by District Education Officer (Male), Abdul Malik, while speaking informally with local media during his visit to the historic Government Primary School Fatima Khel in Bannu.
It is indeed true that the people of Bannu are not lacking in talent. In every field of life—whether education, sports, arts, literature, or culture—they have demonstrated their abilities. For example, in tent pegging, Khan Wajahatullah Khan brought international recognition to Pakistan and earned the title of “Golden Boy.” Similarly, Qazi Mohib, Rashid Junior, Brigadier Hameedi, and Murad Jahan have won national and international titles.
However, it is also a reality that children here do not have access to the same opportunities as those in other districts. A clear example of this is Government Primary School Fatima Khel, which holds historical significance. Construction of the school building began in 1901 and was completed in 1906. Initially, education was provided informally, but before the partition of India, in 1928, it was officially granted government status.
Located in a rural area, this school served as a center of education for both Hindus and Muslims. Dozens of renowned doctors from Bannu, including heart specialist Dr. Qazi Shahabuddin, received their early education here, sitting on mats. Likewise, Dr. Qazi Fayyazuddin, Dr. Qazi Niazuddin, Dr. Rafiuddin, Director Ghayasuddin, Principal Nahiuddin, former DEO Shiraz Khan, Professor Noor Dar, and many other notable individuals began their educational journey at this institution.
Interestingly, many headmasters and teachers studied at this school, later returned as teachers, and eventually retired from here. Records from earlier times are still محفوظ in the school’s record room.
However, it is deeply unfortunate that this historic school has not received the attention it deserves. Currently, the number of students exceeds 900, which is a record for a primary school. Yet, for these 900+ students, there are only nine old-style classrooms—meaning roughly 100 students per classroom.
Ironically, even the head teacher does not have a proper office and manages administrative work by placing chairs in the veranda. Two of the classrooms are in extremely dilapidated condition and are being temporarily supported to prevent collapse.
The PC-1 (development plan) for this historic school has been prepared twice, but it has not moved forward beyond the desks of officials. Records of the education office show that there are dozens of schools in Bannu where millions have been spent, yet they have little to no student enrollment. In contrast, this school has such a large number of students that perhaps no other school in the province has comparable enrollment.
It is therefore essential that the education department and the active district administration of Bannu give special attention to this school and take necessary steps to secure the future of its students.
