Professor Ahsan Iqbal visited flood hit Doodhay village on Sunday to meet affected families and assess on‑ground needs. During the visit he distributed school bags, books and uniforms to young students to help restore their interrupted education and encourage children to return to school.
Ahsan Iqbal praised the courage and resilience of the flood survivors, saying the Pakistani nation once again stood firm in the face of adversity. He highlighted that such resolve among citizens is a key strength during recovery efforts.
The federal minister said government survey teams are estimating damages to crops, houses and roads as part of a coordinated relief, rehabilitation and infrastructure repair drive. He expressed satisfaction that large scale loss of life was avoided, crediting timely efforts by the district administration, rescue services, police and the Pakistan Armed Forces.
Ahsan Iqbal reiterated that education is the most powerful tool to eliminate poverty and stressed the need for equal opportunities for girls alongside boys. He pointed to Narowal where more than 250 schools have been established, many of them for girls, and noted that the majority of students at the University of Narowal are female, a development he described as the foundation of a social transformation.
The minister said the twenty first century belongs to knowledge rather than sheer power or resources, and urged that children be equipped with modern education, computer science skills and exposure to artificial intelligence so they can compete on a global stage. He emphasized that investment in learning will secure long term progress for the region.
Ahsan Iqbal affirmed the government’s commitment to stand with flood affected families throughout relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction, using available resources to ensure communities are not left alone in rebuilding their lives. “Homes and fields can be rebuilt but if a child’s education is lost, their whole future is at stake.” – Professor Ahsan Iqbal
