Attack on Gulbang School highlights education under threat in Makran

“Such incidents cannot undermine the spirit of private educational institutions and teachers. Instead, they will strengthen our resolve,” said PSTA-Kech

Unknown motorcyclist opened fire on the main gate of Gulbang School Buleda late Monday, the school’s director, Asad Baloch, said.

The attack occurred around 8 p.m. local time. Baloch said the assailants, riding motorcycles, fired shots before fleeing. The motive remains unclear, and no group or individual has claimed responsibility.

Buleda, located about 30 kilometres north of Turbat city, has faced similar incidents in the past, heightening concerns for the safety of educational institutions in the region.

Baloch expressed shock over the incident, describing it as a direct assault on education. “I am deeply saddened and alarmed by this attack. While we are not sure who is behind this, we are determined to identify them and hold them accountable,” he said.

In response, Baloch convened a meeting with local community members, private and government school heads, and government representatives to address the situation. He emphasized the attack's implications for all educational institutions in the region and announced plans to meet with other school heads and officials in Kech to strategize measures for ensuring safety.

Widespread condemnation

The Private School Teachers Association (PSTA) Kech issued a strong statement condemning the attack.

“This cowardly act is a failed attempt to hinder the promotion of knowledge and awareness and is absolutely unacceptable,” the PSTA said. The group called on local authorities to arrest those responsible and pledged solidarity with Gulbang School, its director, and its staff.

“Such incidents cannot undermine the spirit of private educational institutions and teachers. Instead, they will strengthen our resolve.”

Gulbang School's unique role

Founded in 2017, Gulbang School is the only private institution in Pakistan focused exclusively on education. Unlike other private schools in the region, which often prioritize profit, Gulbang is committed to providing quality education.

With approximately 300 students and a team of dedicated teachers, the school offers classes up to Grade 9 at this time. About 25% of its students attend tuition-free, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and social responsibility.

Broader context of threats to education

The attack on Gulbang School is part of a broader pattern of violence against educational institutions in the Makran division. In recent years, multiple schools in Buleda and surrounding areas have been targeted, with arson attacks and other forms of intimidation going unpunished.

Notably, in 2014, Zahid Askani Baloch, the principal of the Oasis School System in Gwadar, was assassinated by unknown gunmen. That same year, the Islamist group Al Islami Al Furqan issued threats to private schools in Panjgur, condemning co-education and opposing the education of girls.

The attack on Gulbang School underscores the urgent need for authorities to implement concrete measures to protect educational institutions and hold those responsible for such crimes accountable.

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