Tayyaba Khurshid, Research Officer, Center for International Strategic Studies, AJK (CISS AJK), visited Government Boys Middle School Kakrool as part of the Center’s academic outreach to engage with the youth of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The session began with opening remarks by Mr. Abid Iqbal, Headmaster of the school, who provided a contextual overview of the Kashmir issue. He elaborated on the historical roots of the dispute, emphasizing Pakistan’s principled and consistent support for the Kashmir cause. Mr. Iqbal referred to Kashmir as the “jugular vein” of Pakistan, underscoring its significance in the national consciousness.

In her address, Ms. Tayyaba Khurshid highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally recognized disputed territory. She critically examined the ongoing attempts by India to alter the region’s special status through unilateral and illegal measures, resulting in demographic changes aimed at undermining the identity of the Kashmiri people.
The session also included a discussion on Pakistan’s journey towards the acquisition of nuclear weapons. She emphasized that the nuclear tests were essential for maintaining strategic deterrence in the region. She further explained that Pakistan’s nuclear program operates under a comprehensive and secure command and control system, ensuring its safety and credibility.

In conclusion, she stressed the importance of educating the youth of AJK about regional and global geopolitical dynamics. She urged the students to remain informed and to actively raise their voices in support of the Kashmir cause, contributing to the larger national and international discourse.