“It was my dream to pursue a medical education and become a doctor to serve this province, especially my Christian community,” reflects Iqbal Masih, a 48-year-old sweeper in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department.
His voice carries a mixture of pride and regret as he speaks of his aspirations — dreams that poverty and systemic discrimination thwarted long ago. “But now, my children will fulfil it,” Iqbal Masih shares with hope.
Iqbal’s story is not unique. It represents a broader narrative of the Christian minority and other marginalised groups in Pakistan, where socio-economic barriers often dictate life trajectories. Once, this community held prestigious positions in education and administration, but a combination of intolerance and economic hardship has led many to despair.
Today, however, hope glimmers with the recent announcement of a two-percent admission quota for minority students in public sector universities across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
Introduced in May 2021, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government's initiative aims to rectify historical imbalances that have long hindered minority communities from accessing higher education. This decision comes after decades of advocacy by marginalised groups whose youth have struggled under the weight of poverty and limited opportunities.
Iqbal, who lives in a two-room rented home with his four children, describes the quota as a lifeline. “It was literally very big news for me,” he says, emphasising the importance of this development.
To maximise awareness, organisations like Blue Veins plan to distribute printed materials in churches, mandirs, and temples, ensuring that every eligible student knows about the quota and how to apply
According to the Minorities' Challenges Report 2021, lack of education is a primary obstacle facing minority communities in Peshawar. The prevailing notion that their children are destined for menial jobs discourages investment in education, perpetuating a cycle of poverty that seems unbreakable.
Iqbal, however, believes in his children’s potential. “Our children are very intelligent, and they will prove that they can secure top positions in universities, provided they are given the same opportunities,” he asserts.
The government's quota is not merely a statistic; it represents a shift toward inclusivity. Historically, minorities faced significant barriers, even in educational institutions where they were often seen as outsiders. The quota, now extended beyond medical and engineering colleges to all public sector universities, aims to change that.
On 2 January 2024, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Commission mandated that universities publicly disclose details about the two percent minority quota, marking a significant step toward transparency and accountability.
Sana Ahmad, a senior coordinator at Blue Veins, an organisation advocating for minority rights, highlights the importance of this initiative.
“Out of 27 public sector universities, around 16 have displayed the two percent quota for minorities on their websites, and the offer can be availed online,” she notes.
The potential impact of this policy is profound. It not only opens doors to higher education but also sends a message of hope and acceptance to a community long marginalised.
The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Romana Masih, a social activist from the Christian community, underscores the significance of providing equal opportunities to all segments of society.
“For social inclusivity, providing equal opportunities is essential,” she states. The initial implementation of the quota marks a new chapter for minorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, fostering harmony and cooperation among diverse groups.
To maximise awareness, organisations like Blue Veins plan to distribute printed materials in churches, mandirs, and temples, ensuring that every eligible student knows about the quota and how to apply.
“Admissions are starting in the province, and the maximum number of students should benefit,” Sana emphasises, urging the community to seize this opportunity.
Education is a powerful tool for change. For many, it is the key to escaping the cycle of poverty that has constrained their families for generations. The quota not only aims to uplift individual students but also seeks to bridge the socio-economic gap that has historically divided society.
With the rise of educated individuals from minority backgrounds, the potential for change is immense. Iqbal dreams of a future where his children can break free from the shackles of poverty and fulfil their aspirations. “Poverty is a major hurdle in obtaining education for our people,” he explains. “But this quota gives us hope that our children can secure high-level jobs across the country.”
As Khyber Pakhtunkhwa takes steps toward inclusivity, it sets a precedent for other regions in Pakistan. The ripple effects of this policy could extend far beyond the educational landscape, fostering a culture of acceptance and equality in society.
Iqbal’s resolve mirrors that of many in the community. “It’s time for us to reclaim our place in society,” he asserts. With the right opportunities, the next generation can rise not just to fulfil their dreams, but to inspire change in their communities. The journey toward equality is far from over, but with initiatives like the two percent quota, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is taking significant strides in the right direction.
The story of Iqbal Masih is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. As he looks toward a future filled with possibilities for his children, the implementation of the two percent quota in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa stands as a beacon of hope.
It signals that change is possible, that dreams can be fulfilled, and that, together, society can begin to heal and grow stronger. The path forward may be long, but with determination and newfound opportunities, a brighter future for minorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is within reach.
A prominent Sikh rights campaigner and political activist, Radesh Singh Tony, welcomes the long-awaited decision of the government. He says that it will at least benefit the coming generation.
According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the non-Muslim population is 0.23%. The largest community among the minorities is Christian, constituting 0.15% of the total population, followed by Hindus and Ahmadis, each representing only 0.02%. He informed that the population has grown, but minorities still face significant challenges.
Tony highlighted that most of this minority population remains uneducated due to poverty and a lack of educational opportunities. He noted that only a very small percentage of minority children attain higher education because of these barriers.
“The two percent quota is not enough, but at least it provides a ray of hope for our upcoming generation,” Tony adds, urging the government to ensure that all universities implement this quota so minority students do not face obstacles during admissions.