HDF Alumna Secures 6th Position Nationwide in CSS and Joins the Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS)

Aqsa Bano’s journey is a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and community support. From a small village in Rahim Yar Khan, Punjab, to securing 6th position nationwide in Pakistan’s prestigious Central Superior Services (CSS) Examination, her remarkable achievements demonstrate how access to education can transform lives and open doors to extraordinary opportunities.

Growing up in a modest household as one of nine siblings, Aqsa witnessed the challenges faced by families with limited financial resources. Her father worked as a laborer to support the family, while opportunities for girls to pursue education in her community remained scarce. Yet, with determination, talent, and the right support, Aqsa’s aspirations continued to grow.

Recognizing the barriers to girls’ education, the Human Development Foundation (HDF) worked closely with families and community members to promote the importance of educating girls. Through community mobilization, formal and non-formal education opportunities, scholarships, and continued encouragement, HDF helped create an environment where girls could pursue their educational dreams. Aqsa became one of the early beneficiaries of these efforts.

A Journey Marked by Academic Excellence

Aqsa began her educational journey at HDF Girls High School, Basti Khandoo, the only accessible school for girls in her community. It was here that her potential was recognized and nurtured, laying the foundation for her future success.

In 2014, she achieved an outstanding milestone by securing 1st position in the General Science and Humanities Group in the BISE Bahawalpur matriculation examinations, earning a gold medal. She continued her exceptional academic performance in 2016, securing 1st position in BISE Bahawalpur in her intermediate examinations and receiving merit certificates from the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, Government of Punjab.

With scholarship support from HDF and other partners, Aqsa continued her education with unwavering commitment. In 2018, she graduated from The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, securing 3rd position overall. She subsequently pursued higher education at the University of the Punjab, Lahore, further strengthening her academic foundation.

In recognition of her remarkable achievements and to inspire future generations, HDF named the computer lab at HDF School the Aqsa Computer Lab a lasting tribute to a student whose journey reflects the transformative potential of education.

Turning Dreams into Public Service

After returning to Rahim Yar Khan in 2021, Aqsa began contributing to her community while preparing for competitive examinations. In 2022, she was appointed as an O and A Levels teacher. She was also recommended by the Punjab Public Service Commission for the position of Lecturer in Mathematics, reflecting her continued academic and professional growth.

Her journey reached another defining milestone when she appeared in Pakistan’s highly competitive Central Superior Services (CSS) Examination. Through years of dedication, discipline, and perseverance, Aqsa secured an exceptional 6th position nationwide and was allocated to the Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS), marking a significant step toward a career in public service as an Assistant Commissioner.

Her achievement is not only a personal triumph but also an inspiring example of what becomes possible when talent is supported and opportunities are made accessible.

The Transformative Power of Education

Aqsa Bano’s story reflects HDF’s long-standing commitment to education, community development, and girls’ empowerment. From encouraging families to invest in girls’ education to providing learning opportunities, scholarships, and continued support, HDF’s holistic approach has helped young people pursue their potential and build brighter futures.

Today, Aqsa stands as a source of inspiration for girls across rural Pakistan, demonstrating that a child’s circumstances need not define her future. Her journey reminds us that when communities invest in education and girls are given the opportunity to learn, grow, and lead, the impact can extend far beyond the individual.

From a classroom in Basti Khandoo to national distinction in the CSS Examination, Aqsa Bano’s journey embodies the power of education to transform ambition into achievement and potential into lasting impact.

At HDF, every child’s opportunity to learn is an investment in a stronger, more empowered generation.