PESHAWAR: Ahmed Nawaz, a survivor of the Army Public School attack, has been awarded the British Empire Medal by King Charles III for his exceptional contributions to youth worldwide.
Ahmed’s unwavering commitment to combating extremism through his compelling personal story has inspired and raised awareness among young people globally.
The tragic APS attack occurred on December 16, 2014, when Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) insurgents stormed the military-run school in Peshawar, killing 141 people, including 132 children and nine staff members. At the time, around 500 students aged between 10 and 20 were present in the building.
The brutal massacre left a lasting scar on the nation, and survivors continue to grapple with the trauma to this day.
“This medal is a source of pride for the families of the martyrs, the survivors, and our fellow countrymen,” Ahmed told after receiving the honor.
At just 14 years old during the attack, Ahmed survived by pretending to be dead. He sustained serious arm injuries and was flown to England for specialized treatment at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.
Having lost his brother, Haris, in the attack, Ahmed has emerged as a strong advocate against extremism, visiting schools across the UK to share his story and prevent radicalization among students.
He expressed that the award reflects his dedication to empowering young people worldwide and serves as a statement against those who attack education.
In an emotional Instagram post, Ahmed shared the news, stating: “I am immensely honored to receive the prestigious British Empire Medal. This accolade is a testament to my determination and my years of service empowering young people globally.”
His father, Muhammad Nawaz, commented, “My priority has always been to invest in my children. Ahmed’s achievements are a source of honor for me and for the nation.” He urged parents to focus on nurturing their children, as they will bring about change in society.
Earlier this July, Ahmed was also recognized with the esteemed Princess Diana Award for his humanitarian efforts.
