Baloch students lead unity drive after culture day

Efforts by the divisional administration and educational institutions to celebrate Baloch Culture Day have begun yielding positive results, with Baloch students studying in Faisalabad emerging as ambassadors of inter-provincial harmony and unity.

The recent initiatives, including cultural activities and student engagement, have not only highlighted Baloch traditions but also fostered dialogue and understanding among students from different regions.

Last week, the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, hosted an Iftar dinner in honour of Baloch students, promoting values of tolerance, patience and mutual respect.

Simultaneously, the Municipal Corporation marked Baloch Culture Day across the city, displaying banners and flexes at major intersections and public spaces to showcase various aspects of Baloch heritage.

However, the momentum of cultural and literary activities was temporarily halted after educational institutions were closed until March 31 due to regional tensions, prompting students from other provinces to return to their hometowns. Despite this disruption, Baloch students have expressed a strong commitment to promoting national cohesion in their native areas.

Mir Karam Ali, a final-year BSc (Hons) Agriculture Sciences student from Nasirabad Division, Balochistan, said he plans to establish a "Young Leaders Forum" after completing his degree in June 2026. The platform, he explained, would aim to bridge gaps between provinces by encouraging dialogue and addressing misunderstandings.

He appreciated the Faisalabad administration for engaging with students at the district level, noting that such interactions provide a sense of inclusion.

"When dialogue begins, solutions follow," he said.

Another student, Zubair Baloch from Jaffarabad, shared a similar sentiment, stating that his perception changed significantly after studying in Punjab.

"What we had heard before proved to be incorrect. People here welcomed us with open arms," he said, adding that joint cultural festivals between provinces should be institutionalised to strengthen ties. Zubair also expressed willingness to join any forum aimed at promoting inter-provincial harmony, saying such initiatives could help build lasting relationships among communities.

Meanwhile, Nabeel Afzal Baloch, a horticulture student from Barkhan, emphasised the role of economic cooperation in reducing mistrust.

He pointed out the stark price differences of goods between provinces, citing the example of dates being sold at significantly higher prices in Punjab compared to Balochistan.

He proposed increased trade between regions as a practical solution, adding that he intends to start a business after graduation by supplying dry fruits from Balochistan to Punjab and textiles from Faisalabad to Balochistan. "Trade can bridge gaps and eliminate misconceptions," he said.

The students' responses reflect a growing willingness among youth to play an active role in promoting unity and understanding across provinces, signalling a positive shift towards stronger national integration.