In a moment that brought an entire auditorium to its feet, a young woman from a humble background has made history in Pakistan’s medical education system.
Qandeel Murtaza, daughter of a tailor from Haripur, secured an outstanding 17 gold medals at Khyber Girls Medical College, earning widespread admiration during the ceremony. The hall echoed with applause as her name was announced and she stepped forward to receive her honours.
During the event, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa personally awarded the medals, while Qandeel’s father stood proudly by her side. The image of a tailor watching his daughter collect 17 medals became a powerful symbol of what dedication and family support can achieve.
Her achievement reflects not only her hard work but also a family culture of excellence. One of Qandeel’s sisters is also studying at Khyber Medical College, and another serves as a Grade 17 officer in the Federal Investigation Agency. At the same time, yet another has completed a PhD and is working in Islamabad.
Qandeel’s story is a reminder that financial background does not determine academic potential. Her father, who has spent his life working at a sewing machine, has raised children who are making a difference in medicine, law enforcement, and research.
Her achievement has gone viral across Pakistan, inspiring thousands of young students, especially girls from smaller cities and towns, to dream bigger and work harder, no matter where they come from.
