“Aitzaz Hasan was not just our child but the nation’s child,” says Aitzaz’s father.
On January 6, 2014, the district of Hangu in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was saved from a major tragedy thanks to the bravery of Aitzaz Hasan. The ninth-grade student sacrificed his life to stop a suicide bomber outside his school, saving the lives of over 400 students. He was posthumously awarded the Sitara-e-Shujaat for his bravery.
Today marks the 10th anniversary of his martyrdom, a moment to honor his unparalleled courage and selflessness. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Aitzaz on this occasion.
“Today, we remember Shaheed Aitzaz Hasan, a true son of the soil from Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, whose extraordinary bravery serves as a beacon of hope and resilience,” said the prime minister.
He added that at just 15 years of age, Aitzaz sacrificed his life to protect his school and classmates from a devastating attack.
The prime minister emphasized that Aitzaz’s sacrifice would continue to inspire future generations.
However, his family expressed disappointment over unfulfilled promises made by the government. Aitzaz’s father, Mujahid Ali, remarked, “Shaheed Aitzaz Hasan was not just our son but the nation’s child. Yet, the government’s promises remain unfulfilled.”
Classmates fondly remember Aitzaz as a hero, expressing their gratitude for his ultimate sacrifice that allowed them to live their dreams. Yasir Hussain, a former classmate, shared, “We deeply miss him and urge the government to fulfill the commitments made to his family.”
The promises included building a sports ground and degree colleges in Aitzaz’s honor, but these commitments remain unmet, leaving his family and community disheartened.
