Introduction
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, derived from the name “from the Khyber side of the land of Pashtuns”, is a province rich in cultural heritage and historical significance Formerly known as North West Frontier Province (NWFP), it was renamed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 2010.
This article marks a critical moment in the discovery of this area and It scrutinizes the terrain and sheds light on its past, present and future possibilities.
Names of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:
The etymology of “Khyber Pakhtunkhwa” reflects the rich Pashtun heritage of the region. Initially known as the North West Frontier Province during the British colonial era, its renaming to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 2010 was a culmination of efforts to recognize and celebrate the Pashtun identity. This section explores the historical and cultural significance of the province’s name, tracing its evolution and the rationale behind the renaming.
History of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:
The history of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is deeply intertwined with ancient civilizations and trade routes. From serving as a gateway for merchants during the Indus Valley civilization to being mentioned in Vedic epics like the Rig Veda and Mahabharata, the region has a rich historical tapestry. This section delves into the role of Khyber Pass in facilitating trade and migration, as well as the prominence of Gandhara in ancient texts and its contributions to Hinduism.
Economy of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa boasts a diverse economy, with a significant emphasis on forestry, agriculture, and manufacturing. Despite challenges, the province has witnessed notable growth in various sectors, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s GDP. This section provides insights into key economic indicators, including the province’s share of Pakistan’s GDP, its dominance in forestry, agricultural production, and the emerging manufacturing and high-tech sectors.
Education Landscape
Education plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. While the region has historically grappled with low literacy rates, recent initiatives have led to significant improvements.
This section explores the literacy rates across rural and urban areas, highlighting the gender gap in education and the efforts to bridge it.
Additionally, it presents a comprehensive overview of the educational institutions, including universities, colleges, and major establishments, shaping the academic landscape of the province.
Education Market of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (1998 Estimates)
| Qualification | Urban | Rural | Total | Enrolment Ratio (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Below primary | 413,782 | 3,252,278 | 3,666,060 | 100.00 |
| Primary | 741,035 | 4,646,111 | 5,387,146 | 79.33 |
| Middle | 613,188 | 2,911,563 | 3,524,751 | 48.97 |
| Matriculation | 647,919 | 2,573,798 | 3,221,717 | 29.11 |
| Intermediate | 272,761 | 728,628 | 1,001,389 | 10.95 |
| BA, BSc … degrees | 20,359 | 42,773 | 63,132 | 5.31 |
| MA, MSc … degrees | 18,237 | 35,989 | 53,226 | 4.95 |
| Diploma, Certificate … | 82,037 | 165,195 | 247,232 | 1.92 |
| Other qualifications | 19,766 | 75,226 | 94,992 | 0.53 |
| Total | 2,994,084 | 14,749,561 | 17,743,645 | – |
Public Medical Colleges in KPK
| Medical College | Location |
|---|---|
| Khyber Medical University | Peshawar |
| Bannu Medical College | Bannu |
| Khyber Girls Medical College | Peshawar |
| Ayub Medical College | Abbottabad |
| Bacha Khan Medical College | Mardan |
| Gajju Khan Medical College | Swabi |
| Gomal Medical College | D.I. Khan |
| Nowshera Medical College | Nowshera |
| Saidu Medical College | Swat |
Education Market of KPK (1998 Estimates)
| Qualification | Urban | Rural | Total | Enrolment Ratio (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Below primary | 413,782 | 3,252,278 | 3,666,060 | 100.00 |
| Primary | 741,035 | 4,646,111 | 5,387,146 | 79.33 |
| Middle | 613,188 | 2,911,563 | 3,524,751 | 48.97 |
| Matriculation | 647,919 | 2,573,798 | 3,221,717 | 29.11 |
| Intermediate | 272,761 | 728,628 | 1,001,389 | 10.95 |
| BA, BSc … degrees | 20,359 | 42,773 | 63,132 | 5.31 |
| MA, MSc … degrees | 18,237 | 35,989 | 53,226 | 4.95 |
| Diploma, Certificate … | 82,037 | 165,195 | 247,232 | 1.92 |
| Other qualifications | 19,766 | 75,226 | 94,992 | 0.53 |
| Total | 2,994,084 | 14,749,561 | 17,743,645 | – |
Engineering Universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
| Engineering University | Location |
|---|---|
| CECOS University of Information Technology and Emerging Science | Peshawar |
| National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad | College of Aeronautical Engineering, Risalpur Campus |
| COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Islamabad | Abbottabad Campus |
| City University of Science and Information Technology | Peshawar |
| Gandhara Institute of Science & Technology, PGS Engineering College | Peshawar |
| Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology | Topi-Swabi |
| Iqra University Peshawar | Peshawar |
| National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad | Military College of Engineering, Risalpur Campus |
| National University of Computer & Emerging Sciences, Islamabad | Peshawar Campus |
| University of Engineering & Technology | Peshawar (Main Campus) |
| University of Engineering & Technology | Mardan Campus |
| University of Engineering & Technology | Bannu Campus |
| University of Engineering & Technology | Abbottabad Campus |
| University of Engineering & Technology | Kohat Campus |
| Sarhad University of Science and Information Technology | Peshawar |
| Abasyn University | Peshawar |
| University of Science and Technology | Bannu |
| IMSciences | Peshawar |
| Gomal University | Dera Ismail Khan |
Major Educational Establishments in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
| Educational Establishment | Location |
|---|---|
| Cadet College Razmak | North Waziristan District |
| Abbottabad Public School | Abbottabad |
| Akram Khan Durrani College | Bannu |
| Army Burn Hall College | Abbottabad |
| University of Science and Technology Bannu | Bannu |
| Cadet College Kohat | Kohat |
| Edwardes College | Peshawar |
| Abdul Wali Khan University | Mardan |
| Gomal University | Dera Ismail Khan |
| Islamia College University | Peshawar |
| University of Agriculture | Peshawar |
| University of Malakand | Chakdara |
| University of Peshawar | Peshawar |
| Khushal Khan Khattak University | Karak |
| IMSciences | Peshawar |
| Forward Degree College | Peshawar |
| Khyber Medical University | Peshawar |
| Khyber Girls Medical College | Peshawar |
| Khyber Medical College | Peshawar |
Conclusion:
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and academic prowess of the Pashtun people. As it continues to evolve, embracing modernization while cherishing its traditions, the province holds immense potential for growth and development in various spheres. Through concerted efforts in education, economy, and governance, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is poised to emerge as a dynamic hub of innovation and progress in Pakistan.
Written By Farhan Akram