Naveed Ahmed Khan Photos by Ramzan Mughal
ISLAMABAD: The Annual Day of AIMS Education System, held at the National Skills University Islamabad, transformed into a powerful celebration of unity, cultural pride, and heartfelt solidarity with Palestine. The event was graced by His Excellency Dr. Zuhair Mohammad Hamdallah Zaid, Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Pakistan, who served as chief guest.
In an impassioned address, Dr. Zaid expressed deep gratitude to the government and people of Pakistan for their unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. “The love of the Palestinian people for Pakistan is deep and sincere,” he said, adding, “We pray for Pakistan’s peace, prosperity, and development, as your stability and strength empower Palestine.”
The ambassador urged the Pakistani people to act as a unifying force for the Palestinian cause, encouraging them to prioritize the interests of Palestine above all organizational lines. “Palestine has united the people of Pakistan—its government, opposition, and all political parties. I ask you to be a single voice for us in return,” he remarked.
He deeply appreciated AIMS Education System and its dedicated staff for educating young minds about Palestine and nurturing their emotional and intellectual connection to the cause. “What I witnessed today touched my heart and brought me back to the soil of my homeland, to its deep pain and resilient spirit,” he said. “With such brotherhood, we are not weak. In fact, we are stronger than ever.”
The event opened with the recitation and translation of Surah Bani Israel (Verses 1–7), followed by a heartfelt Na’at that established a spiritual tone. A key moment of the day was the Oath-Taking Ceremony, where student leaders pledged to uphold values of empathy, integrity, and leadership.
A series of moving cultural performances followed, centered around the Palestinian identity. “The Heavenly Fruits of Palestine” showcased the richness of Palestinian agriculture and heritage, while “ہمیں فلسطین سے محبت کیوں” (Why We Love Palestine) highlighted the historical and emotional ties between Pakistan and Palestine.
Interlude presentations-maintained engagement, leading into theatrical segments such as a dramatic portrayal of Salahuddin Ayubi’s valor, “The First Aliyah,” and the stirring performance “The Olive Tree,” symbolizing peace and steadfastness. The event concluded with the emotional and symbolic finale “میں فلسطین ہوں” (I Am Palestine), which left many visibly moved.
Dr. Zaid noted how the comments and support from the Pakistani audience added profoundly to his experience, reinforcing the emotional and spiritual connection between the two nations. “I wish and pray that one day we will all be able to stand and pray together in a free Al-Aqsa Mosque, our first Qibla,” he said.
Chairman of AIMS Education System, Mr. Almas Ayoub Sabir—whose two-decade-long vision gave rise to the institution—along with Executive Director Dr. Moazzam Manawar Sheikh, presented souvenirs to the ambassador and expressed sincere thanks for his presence. The event closed with the distribution of student titles and a group photo capturing the spirit of solidarity and shared purpose.
