Aga Khan School alumna makes history in the police service of Pakistan
Shazia Ishaq, a graduate of the Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Kuragh in Chitral, has made local history in the Malakand Division of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, by becoming the first female police officer in the district.
Shazia passed the highly competitive examination and application process and has been appointed to the rank of Assistant Superintendent. Those wishing to join the civil service are required to pass the Central Superior Services (CSS) exams conducted by the Federal Public Service, which are followed by a number of interviews and medical examinations. Candidates are then given the option of selecting the area they wish to work in, depending on their score.
Born in a village in the Upper Chitral district, Shazia joined the Aga Khan Higher Secondary School Kuragh in 2008 as a grade 8 student. A hardworking and diligent student, she completed her Secondary and Higher Secondary School Certificate Examinations in the sciences achieving A+ grades. Later, she joined the prestigious Islamia College, Peshawar, and obtained an undergraduate degree in political science.
It was during her time as an undergraduate student that Shazia started to consider a career in public service, as she felt it was the best way for her to make a difference to those around her.
In her new role, one of Shazia’s key goals is to provide better police services for women and help create a culture where women feel comfortable approaching law enforcement services. She hopes that her presence as a female police officer will instill confidence and hope in the women of the local area.
She credits her parents for her ambitions and accomplishments. “My parents are the most supportive and cooperative parents, and my achievements would not have been possible without them,” Shazia acknowledges.
Photos (top to bottom):
- To join the civil service Shazia passed the highly competitive examination and application process.
- Shazia hopes that her presence as a female police officer will instill confidence and hope in the women of the local area.
