MUSTAFA MUGHAL
DERA ISMAIL KHAN: In a landmark step towards empowering girls through quality education and leadership training, the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is all set to establish the first-ever Girls Cadet College in Dera Ismail Khan. The initiative, spearheaded by Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Gandapur, Member National Assembly Faisal Amin Gandapur, and Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Shahab Ali Shah, is now moving towards practical implementation.
The provincial government has officially notified the appointment of Zafar ul Islam Khattak, a senior and experienced bureaucrat currently serving as Commissioner Dera Division, as the founding Principal of the Girls Cadet College.
Speaking to the media, Principal-designate Zafar ul Islam Khattak announced that the first academic session of the college will commence in mid-September 2025. Initially, classes will be held at the Regional Professional Development Centre (RPDC) building until the construction of the college’s permanent campus is completed.
He further stated that 300 kanals of land have already been allocated for the permanent facility in Ratta Kulachi, where a modern, fully-equipped campus will be developed. Teaching activities will continue at RPDC until the new building is ready.
“The Girls Cadet College Dera Ismail Khan will become a hub of quality education, discipline, and leadership for the young girls of southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” said Zafar ul Islam Khattak. “It is an honour for me to serve as the founding principal. Our aim is not just to deliver curriculum-based education but to instill strong character, confidence, and leadership qualities in our students.”
The announcement has been widely welcomed by local communities, educationists, and civil society members who hailed it as a historic milestone for the region. Female students from Dera Ismail Khan and adjoining districts have also expressed their excitement and appreciation.
“This is a dream come true,” said Minza Khan, a student from Tank district. “We have long waited for such an opportunity that brings quality education and discipline together, right here in our region.”
Another student, Maria Bibi from Dera city, said, “It is inspiring to see our government investing in girls’ futures. This college will open new doors for us to lead and grow.”
Sarwat Konain, a retired senior teacher and educationist, also praised the initiative. “The establishment of a Girls Cadet College in DI Khan is a transformative step. It reflects a shift in priorities towards empowering young women through structure, discipline, and opportunity. This institution will shape generations of confident and capable leaders,” she said.
Stakeholders believe the project will significantly raise the standard of education while contributing to a dignified and self-reliant future for women in the province.
