Balochistan’s Kakar Makes History as Third Pakistani to Head Oxford Union
Israr Kakar: From Small Village to Oxford Union President.
London: Israr Kakar, a student from Balochistan at Oxford University, has made history by becoming the first person from his province and only the third Pakistani to win the prestigious Oxford Union Presidency, following in the footsteps of Benazir Bhutto, who was the first Pakistani to hold the position in 1977.
Israr Kakar, the newly elected Oxford Union President, hails from a small village in Killa Abdullah district, Balochistan, near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. He is the youngest of 13 siblings and has risen from humble beginnings, having completed his primary education in his village and later studying in Abbotabad, Lahore, and the US for his higher education.
Israr Kakar’s academic achievements include an LLB with distinction from the University of Aberdeen and a Bar at Law degree from Lincoln’s Inn, earned on a full scholarship.
He is now pursuing his DPhil at Oxford University’s Law Department. Notably, he is only the second member of his family to attend college, following in the footsteps of his elder brother, a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford.
Oxford University to provide scholarships for Balochistan students
Israr Kakar from Balochistan has been elected as the President of the Oxford Union, a historic victory that marks him as the third Pakistani and the first individual from Balochistan to hold this prestigious position, following a successful election on Saturday.
Israr Kakar expressed his gratitude to the Oxford Union members for electing him President, saying: “I’m deeply thankful for the trust you’ve placed in me. I’m also grateful to my team for their belief in me. This election was particularly significant, given the challenging circumstances we’re facing.”
Israr Kakar acknowledged that his humble rural upbringing and achievement of this honor will inspire the next generation of young people. He vowed to make the most of this platform, stating, “I won’t waste a single moment. This is a proud moment for Pakistan and my family in Balochistan, and I’m committed to making a positive impact.”
Israr Kakar outlined his vision for his presidency, saying, “While there’s much work to be done, I’m dedicated to guiding the Oxford Union towards a more inclusive and relevant future, ensuring it represents and serves the diverse needs of its members.
The Oxford Union’s official newspaper announced Israr Kakar’s decisive victory in the presidential election, winning with 617 votes to his opponent’s 393. This margin is notably larger than in the previous two elections. Additionally, the newspaper reported that Rachel Haddad Moskalenko, Moosa Harraj, and Siddhant Nagrath won the elections for Librarian, Treasurer, and Secretary, respectively, marking a historic milestone as all four officer positions will be held by individuals from BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) backgrounds for the first time.
The Oxford Union, established in 1823, is a prestigious society and one of Britain’s oldest university unions. It has a long history of hosting distinguished speakers, including:
– The Queen
– President Reagan
– Mother Teresa
– Benazir Bhutto, former Prime Minister of Pakistan
– Ahmad Nawaz, survivor of the APS School Peshawar attack
– Mahatir Muhammad, former Prime Minister of Malaysia
– Malala Yousufzai, Nobel Peace Prize laureate
– Qazi Faiz Essa, Chief Justice of Pakistan
– Hamid Mir, senior journalist
The Oxford Union is renowned for its debates and has been a platform for prominent figures to share their views and engage with students.
Baloch students represent Pakistan speaking at world’s oldest debate forum in traditional attire
Israr Kakar has been an active participant and organizer of debates at the Oxford Union, showcasing his passion for meaningful discussions and intellectual exchange. Notably, he has successfully hosted several high-profile events, featuring distinguished speakers such as:
– Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad
– Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai
– Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa
– Renowned journalist Hamid Mir
These events demonstrate Israr’s ability to bring together prominent figures from various backgrounds, fostering dialogue and intellectual exploration at the Oxford Union.