Master Naqib Ullah (1934-2013)

Student life: Naqib Ullah received his early education at two of Kohat’s most prestigious institutions: Sanger School and G.H.S No. 1 High School. During his formative years at these respected establishments, he had the privilege of studying under some of the region’s most distinguished educators, including Sahib Zada Abdul Qadir Khan, Mustafa Khan, and Mian Shoukat Mehmood. These visionary teachers played a pivotal role in shaping his academic foundation. Their expertise, commitment, and passion for education created a nurturing environment where discipline, curiosity, and excellence were encouraged. Under their guidance, Naqib Ullah developed not only strong scholastic abilities but also the values and principles that would serve as the cornerstone of his future achievements. The mentorship provided by Sahibzada Abdul Qadir Khan, Khanzada Mustafa Khan, and Syed Mian Mehmood Shoukat inspired him to strive for excellence in every endeavor. Their influence left a lasting impact, helping mold his character, broaden his horizons, and strengthen his resolve. Naqib Ullah’s educational journey at Sanger School and G.H.S No. 1 High School laid the groundwork for the remarkable path he would later pursue, both in service and in leadership.

Start employment: Naqib Ullah’s remarkable journey began during the British era, when he was selected for the prestigious Air Scouts program—an initiative created to identify and nurture exceptional young talent. He was part of the tenth batch sent to Dirge Road, Karachi, for glider training under the expert supervision of Pilot Officer Mr. Afzal. This intensive program, conducted and sponsored by the Royal Air Force at Maleer Cantonment, Karachi, Pakistan, laid the foundation for his future achievements. Training alongside fellow scouts Sheikh Muzaffar Iqbal, Jafar, Sharon, and Gul Master Naqib Ullah quickly distinguished himself through his dedication, discipline, and natural aptitude for aviation. This early exposure to flight, leadership, and technical skills would shape the trajectory of his life. After Pakistan's independence, Naqib Ullah joined the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), where he continued to excel. Leveraging the skills he had cultivated as an Air Scout, he rose rapidly through the ranks and ultimately earned the esteemed position of commander of his platoon at Kohat Air Base. Fondly known as "Kapal Ullah," he garnered deep respect from both peers and superiors for his leadership, professionalism, and commitment. Despite a promising military career, Naqib Ullah chose a different path. He transitioned into the education sector, joining the N.W.F.P. (North-West Frontier Province) Education Department. There, he applied his leadership, discipline, and experience toward shaping young minds and contributing to the nation in a new and meaningful way. Naqib Ullah’s life story remains a source of inspiration, reflecting adaptability, courage, and unwavering dedication to service. His legacy goes far beyond his military achievements he continues to influence future generations through his impact on education and community development.

Career: During his student years, Naqib Ullah served with distinction as a Scout Master, guiding young scouts with discipline and purpose. He led the Tribal Scouts on a memorable tour of West Pakistan, where the delegation was received by President Field Marshal Muhammad Ayub Khan at the Rawalpindi Presidency. Their journey continued to Lahore, where they met Governor Amir Muhammad Khan of Kala Bagh. In appreciation of his exceptional leadership and service, Naqib Ullah was honored with the rank of Subaidar. Beyond his contributions to scouting, Naqib Ullah was a remarkably versatile individual a capable football player, a trained fire officer, and a dedicated educator. He completed multiple fire prevention and safety courses, reflecting his deep commitment to community welfare and preparedness. After retiring from N.W.F.P service, Naqib Ullah continued to enrich the field of education. He spent more than 15 years at Froebels International School Islamabad, and also taught at Marjan Public School, Hamdard Public School, and Science School and Collage Islamabad. Over the years, many of his students rose to positions of responsibility and distinction, serving the nation with honor and carrying forward the values instilled by their teacher.

Educator: Naqib Ullah was a pioneering educator whose dedication and vision helped lay the foundation for quality education in the Kohat region. As one of the founding members of Kohat Comprehensive High School established in the historic building of the old Islamia High School alongside Muhammad Arif Bangash he played a central role in shaping the institution’s early identity and academic direction. His commitment to learning and service positioned him as a respected figure among colleagues, students, and the broader community. Throughout his distinguished career, Naqib Ullah served in a wide range of educational institutions across diverse and often challenging regions. His journey took him through Bund Khula, G.H.S No. 1, Comprehensive High School, Ziarat Sheikh Allah Dad, Ladha (Waziristan), Landi Kotal (Kurram Agency), Shabqadar (Khyber Agency), Subhan Khuwar (Khyber Agency), Raisalpur, Akhurwal, Dara Adam Khail, Akhurwal (Kohat Pass), and G.H.S No. 4 Kohat. In each assignment, he brought the same spirit of discipline, compassion, and commitment to excellence, leaving a lasting mark wherever he taught. Naqib Ullah was known not only for his professional competence, but also for his ability to inspire confidence and curiosity in his students. His classrooms were spaces of encouragement where students felt guided, supported, and motivated to rise above limitations. Generations of learners benefited from his gentle yet firm approach, his belief in character-building, and his emphasis on both knowledge and integrity. The depth of his experience and the breadth of his service made him a mentor and role model for many aspiring educators. His legacy endures in the institutions he helped strengthen, the communities he uplifted, and the countless students whose lives he influenced. Naqib Ullah’s life remains a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring impact of a teacher devoted to his mission.