21 Khyber schools still await reconstruction

Despite repeated pledges, numerous government schools in Bara sub-division destroyed during militant times continue to lack proper buildings. Children still study in tents, temporary structures, open fields, or amidst ruins. The Government High School Muwaz Khel, destroyed by explosives in December 2011, has been waiting for reconstruction for nearly 15 years; its skeletal remains still stand, posing a safety hazard for students.

Headmaster Gulab Gul Afridi has repeatedly urged officials to demolish the dangerous ruins or construct a new building. However, no progress has been made despite letters to the education department and meetings with representatives. The Chinese-assisted reconstruction program originally included Muwaz Khel High School, but it was later discovered the school was excluded.

Out of 50 schools rebuilt with Chinese aid, 24 boys and 26 girls schools are now functional. Yet, eight more schools are still awaiting reconstruction, including Government Primary School Latif Khel and Government Primary School Younas Khel. Five of these remaining schools are girls institutions, while three are boys institutions.

Students in these neglected buildings continue to learn under temporary conditions. For years, affected pupils have studied in tents, makeshift shelters, or near the ruins of their former classrooms, disrupting education and denying them a safe learning environment. District Education Officer Misri Khan confirmed that 21 school buildings across Khyber district remain in ruins, with a PC-1 for their reconstruction prepared for approval in the 2026-27 ADP.

While significant progress has been made in restoring the education system, the plight of Muwaz Khel High School and other institutions highlights that full recovery remains incomplete.