Daily Times

LAHORE: King of one state has asked the king of other state to deport his nationals who were serving the people, but unfortunately, the people who are ordered to leave the country are teachers, who are globally respected by developed societies.

A father of two children studying at the Pak-Turk International School expressed these views during a press conference at the Lahore Press Club on Friday. He said that departure of teachers in the middle of academic year would bring a major breach in the studies of students.

Parents, teachers and management of Pak Turk Schools not only condemned the act of Turkish and Pakistani governments but also demanded both states to refrain from involving teachers in their politics. They also demanded the Pakistani government to take back its decision of deporting Turkish teachers.

It is pertinent to mention that teachers, students and their parents have been protesting since the Pakistani government has asked the Turkish staff of Pak-Turk International Schools to leave the country within 72 hours. The government’s orders came in response to the Turkish president’s request, claiming that the school was owned by the foundation of his opponent, who was allegedly involved in the Turkish military
coup attempt.

Amir Abdullah, representative of parents and teachers body of Pak-Turk International Schools, was of the view that teachers were asked to leave the country within 72 hours as if they were criminals. “These are teachers who build nations, not criminals, who have been asked to leave within stipulated time,” he added.

He said that the Turkish teachers were not involved in any negative activity against Pakistan or Turkey. “The school neither receives funds or financial assistance from Pakistani or Turkish government,” Amir confirmed.

He told media that Pak-Turk schools had played vital role in the development of Pakistan for last 21 years, adding that it’s efforts could not be forgotten during the crucial time of 2005 earthquake in northern areas. Amir observed that teachers must not be punished for political rivalries.

Samina, mother of a student, expressed her concern and anger on the occasion, saying that for 21 years, Pakistani and Turkish governments were not aware of the teachers and now, all of a sudden, they have labelled the teachers as terrorists and activists of Islamic State. “Don’t ruin the future of our kids,” she pleaded.

She further said that the students of Pak-Turk schools have achieved many honours and prizes, adding that one of the students also took first position in economics. This act is tantamount to ruining the future of the Turkish teachers as well their families, who honestly served the people of Pakistan, she concluded.