Meet Javed Ahmad, an M.Phil Scholar from Aga Khan University, a Module Developer at AKU-IED, and a Field Officer at Sukkur IBA University. Hailing from Thoi Yasin Valley in Ghizer, Gilgit-Baltistan, Javed exemplifies resilience, determination, and academic excellence, providing inspiration to many.
Javed completed primary education from DJ Primary School Thoi Nalti. After grade five he was enrolled at DJ High School Thoi Harf, which was one and half hours away from his home. Due to lack of transport, he had to spend more than three hours per day commuting to and from the school at this tender age. After completing grade 8, Javed successfully qualified for admission at the Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, (AKHSS) Gilgit from where he did his intermediate in 2012.
During his school years, Javed demonstrated excellence in academics and co-curricular activities. He showed a flair for artistic endeavors, particularly sketching. In 2008, Javed’s talent and dedication to art culminated in a remarkable achievement as he clinched victory in the Golden Jubilee Art competition on the theme, “Friend of the Environment.” His sketches not only captured the essence of nature but also earned him well-deserved recognition at the local, regional, and national levels.
My elder brother, Imtiaz Ahmad, was my guiding light, encouraging me to pursue higher education and explore endless opportunities.
Javed Ahmad
Encouraged by his elder brother Javed Ahmad, whom he considers his mentor and inspiration, Javed got admission at the National University of Modern Languages, Islamabad, from where he attained his Masters in English Literature and Linguistics in 2018. During his studies at NUML, he also worked for ITREB Rawalpindi/Islamabad as a Learning Coordinator for three years, setting a base for his future academic roles in the realm of education.
After graduating from NUML, Javed remained associated with the Elysian School System in Gilgit-Baltistan, holding various positions including lecturer of English, Vice Principal, and Principal. During these years, he also obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad. Moreover, Javed remained associated with I-SAHRD Pakistan as an English Language instructor for one and a half years.
Serving in different educational roles, stimulated in Javed a desire for a higher professional degree in education. His elder brother Imtiaz Ahmad was the main source of inspiration in this regard who as a guiding light and mentor, instilled in Javed the importance of lifelong learning and the transformative power of education.
My goal is to create a platform in Gilgit-Baltistan where every student can pursue education without financial constraints, fostering a more inclusive society.
Javed Ahmad
Thus, armed with determination and encouragement, Javed looked around for reputable institutions that could equip him with new skill sets and competencies to contribute in the field of education. This profound desire landed him in the MPhil in Education program at Aga Khan University Institute for Educational Development (AKU-IED) in 2021, from where he graduated with distinction this year.
Javed’s academic journey was not free of challenges. Throughout his academic pursuits, Javed encountered numerous obstacles, including financial constraints and being away from his family. However, with resilience and the support of AKU-IED, which awarded him a scholarship and stipend, Javed triumphed over adversity, emerging stronger and more determined than ever.
Now, Javed stands as evidence of the transformative power of education. His roles as a Module Developer at AKU-IED and a Field Officer with Sukkur IBA University highlight his academic prowess and commitment to educational advancement and societal upliftment.
Due to financial issues, I worried about my M.Phil Program initially. Thanks to AKU-IED, I received a full scholarship and a monthly stipend that allowed me to focus solely on my studies.
Javed Ahmad
Looking forward, Javed aims to initiate a program that guarantees quality education for marginalized communities in Gilgit-Baltistan, regardless of gender, region, or socio-economic status. He envisions launching an educational initiative with a ‘No Student Left Behind’ approach to assist students facing financial constraints in their educational journey. This approach embodies Javed’s dedication to creating a fairer educational environment in Gilgit-Baltistan.
In Javed’s journey, we find not just a story of personal triumph but evidence of the unwavering spirit of those who dare to dream and strive for a better tomorrow. As he continues to walk the path of educational enlightenment, Javed remains an inspiration and symbol of aspiration for generations to come.
On behalf of Ibex Times, we extend our best wishes to Javed for his future endeavors.
