In the aftermath: BKU students demand privileges offered to APS survivors

Urge govt to announce scholarships to encourage students to attend varsity

PESHAWAR: Students of Bacha Khan University, Charsadda have urged the government to provide them the same privileges offered to victims of the Army Public School attack on December 16, 2014.

Speaking at a news conference at Peshawar Press Club on Thursday, a large number of varsity students said the BKU attack has left an indelible mark on the psyche of students. At least 21 people died in the January 20 attack.

Needing encouragement

Ali Khan, a student, told journalists many students were wounded in the attack while others are still coming to grips with the incident. According to Ali, students are afraid to go to school and need a push in the right direction.

“BKU students should be facilitated at all costs,” he said. “They should be exempted from paying fees and provided free education.” He added, “The government should announce scholarships to encourage students to attend the university.”

Compensation plans

Ali said the families of victims who died in the BKU attack should also be compensated.

“BKU students must be provided the same privileges offered to APS survivors,” he said.

According to Ali, the government should also formulate a security plan for the university and the premises should be immediately reopened.

A compensation package has been announced for BKU students by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

On January 29, the BKU administration established a fund to provide financial assistance to families of students and teachers who died in the attack.

The fund was set up in view of the financial position of families and philanthropists have been asked to donate money towards the cause.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 5^th,  2016.