LONDON: In a historic milestone, Israr Kakar, a student from Balochistan, has been elected president of the Oxford Union, making him the third Pakistani and the first individual from Balochistan to achieve this prestigious position.
The Oxford Union, founded in 1823, is renowned as one of the world’s oldest and most esteemed debating societies, known for its rigorous intellectual environment and illustrious history of prominent speakers.
Mr. Israr Kakar hails from a small village in the Qila Abdullah district, a testament to his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to academic excellence. Currently, he is enrolled in the DPhil programme at Oxford’s Law Department, where his scholarly pursuits continue to flourish.
Notably, Mr. Kakar is not the first in his family to achieve academic distinction at Oxford. His elder brother was also a Rhodes Scholar at the university, marking the Kakar family’s significant educational legacy. This accomplishment highlights the exceptional talent and determination present in their family.
Elected on Saturday, Mr. Kakar shared his sentiments in an interview. He expressed profound gratitude towards the members of the Oxford Union for their trust and support. “I am incredibly grateful to the members of the Oxford Union for placing their trust in me. This achievement will inspire the next generation of aspiring young people from humble backgrounds,” he said.
Mr. Kakar’s election as president of the Oxford Union is a significant inspiration for students from underrepresented regions and backgrounds, demonstrating that with dedication and hard work, prestigious opportunities are within reach. His success is a beacon of hope and encouragement for many aspiring scholars.
