The cadet college system in Pakistan is structured to enable students to attain academic excellence and cultivate a disciplined mindset, which will facilitate their adaptation to various professions, including the military, such as the Pakistan Army, Pakistan Air Force, and Pakistan Navy. Pakistan has a reputable cadet college system that is spread throughout the country. Apart from providing quality education, the primary focus of these institutions is physical fitness, discipline, and an emphasis on character-building for the students.
One such notable institution is Cadet College Jajja, a project of the Al-Noor Welfare Trust, established in 1998, and operating under the guidance of Lt Gen (R) Lehrasab Khan, HI(M), SJ, S Bt. Situated in the picturesque village of Jajja within the Jajja Educational Complex, Sukho, Tehsil Gujar Khan, District Rawalpindi, this institution has earned a distinguished reputation as one of the premier Cadet Colleges in Pakistan. It plays a pivotal role in delivering high-quality education and fostering character development among its young students.
Eager Minds at Work: Students in Classroom
The journey of this institution began in 2001 when it commenced its educational programs. Lt Gen (R) Lehrasab Khan, driven by a vision to establish an educational complex in his hometown of Jajja, aimed to raise the educational standards of the local community and serve his native people. His vision bore fruit as the college evolved into an exemplary institution for boys, offering top-notch education and a well-structured academic and extracurricular routine. Since its inception, the college has consistently provided outstanding educational and boarding facilities, as well as a wide array of sporting and physical fitness activities for its students.
Cadet College Jajja, like its counterparts in Pakistan, follows a comprehensive curriculum that combines traditional academic subjects with a strong emphasis on character development, leadership qualities, and physical fitness. The college provides students with a structured and disciplined environment that prepares them for leadership roles across various fields, including the military, civil services, and other professional careers. The academic program at the college spans from the 6th to the 12th grade and accommodates approximately 450 to 470 students. One of the college’s main assets is its modern educational setup, contributing to effective learning. The academic environment is intentionally designed to nurture critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students, equipping them for a future where intellectual capabilities are highly valued. The institution’s commitment to holistic development ensures that its graduates are not only academically proficient but also possess the qualities of leadership and physical fitness that are essential for success in various professional fields.
The infrastructure of the college is on par with the leading institutions of its kind in Pakistan, offering a wide array of well-established and meticulously maintained facilities. The campus comprises various buildings, including the academic block, administrative block, faculty offices and residencies, hostel accommodations, a medical ward, library, messing facilities, auditorium, and expansive playgrounds. These academic facilities are equipped with modern classrooms, state-of-the-art science and computer laboratories, and a well-stocked library featuring an extensive collection of books and research materials.
The highly disciplined daily routine at the college plays a pivotal role in fostering the development and enhancement of students’ moral character, physical health, communication skills, punctuality, and academic capabilities. This strict regimen commences with morning prayers, followed by invigorating morning drills, a nutritious breakfast, and a morning assembly. Subsequently, students engage in academic classes until noon. After a nourishing lunch, students are allocated time for physical activities in the playground, participating in various sports to maintain their fitness and overall well-being. Following this, students attend prep classes, ensuring a focused approach to their studies. In the evening, students gather for prayers and then proceed to the dining hall for dinner, marking the conclusion of the day. This highly organized routine imparts valuable lessons in punctuality, teamwork, and strategic thinking, with students benefiting from their involvement in sports and extracurricular activities. Additionally, the regimented schedule, including timely breakfast, lunch, and dinner, not only promotes good health but also imparts basic table manners, instilling a sense of etiquette and decorum. The imposition of distinct dress codes for various activities, such as the college uniform, sports kit, and hostel dress, further underscores the importance of dress manners and cleanliness in the development of the students.
The cadet college ensures a comfortable and secure living environment for its students through its dormitory arrangements. The campus also provides recreational areas including football fields and basketball courts, promoting physical fitness and a variety of sports activities. For military training and discipline, the college maintains a dedicated drill square and parade ground. Furthermore, the institution prioritizes the health and well-being of its students with a well-staffed medical ward. Additionally, the picturesque campus also has a man-made dam, enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings. In conclusion, the exceptional infrastructure of the institute contributes to a well-rounded educational experience, nurturing the academic, physical, and character development of its students.
To uplift any institution, the head of administration always plays a key role. The principal of the college, Air Commodore (R) Muhammad Azhar Rana, shared his valuable insights regarding the functioning and management of the institution and his vision.
Q. Could you please share the goals and objectives you have set for the college during your tenure as its principal?
Air Commodore (R) Muhammad Azhar Rana: Our primary goal is to elevate Cadet College Jajja to a level that rivals private-funded educational institutions while surpassing most government educational institutions in terms of quality. We have a well-defined code of conduct that all students are expected to adhere to. This includes rules related to behaviour, respect for others, punctuality, and academic integrity. Violations are addressed promptly and fairly. We are committed to achieving a high-quality education with grooming of students, even though our remote location poses some challenges in terms of retaining teaching staff.
Q. This college is renowned for its discipline and organization. Could you please provide details on how you uphold this reputation?
Air Commodore (R) Muhammad Azhar Rana: Maintaining discipline is crucial, and we achieve this through a structured daily routine. We emphasize both academic and physical activities throughout the day and night, fostering a disciplined and organized environment for our students. Each day begins with a wake-up call, followed by a series of activities with specific time slots allocated for classes, study hours, meals, sports, and extracurricular activities. This structured routine helps students develop a sense of time management and discipline.
Building Dreams, Shaping Futures: Exploring the College’s Infrastructure
Our primary focus is education and we believe that a disciplined approach to studies is crucial. Regular classes, study periods, and homework assignments are all closely monitored. We have a zero-tolerance policy for academic misconduct, which further reinforces the importance of discipline in one’s educational journey.
Q. You mentioned that students’ priorities have shifted towards fields other than the military. How does Cadet College Jajja adapt to these changing aspirations, and how do you ensure students are well-prepared for diverse career paths?
Air Commodore (R) Muhammad Azhar Rana: Indeed, our students have diverse career aspirations. In the last ten years, students’ aspirations and goals have changed, before that young cadets were passionate about only one field – The Armed Forces. Now, we are equipping them for multiple professional fields, we regularly assess and evaluate students’ behaviour and academic progress.
This continuous feedback loop helps students understand their strengths and areas where improvement is needed. Our curriculum and mentoring aim to prepare them for success in any path they choose.
Q. You have a strict policy against mobile phone usage within the college. Could you please elaborate on the reasoning behind this policy and its impact on students?
Air Commodore (R) Muhammad Azhar Rana Principal Cadet College Jajja
Air Commodore (R) Muhammad Azhar Rana: Our policy against mobile phones is rooted in the detrimental impact of social media and negative mobile phone usage on our students. We believe in encouraging students to utilize the resources and facilities available to them within the college, and this approach has proven successful in maintaining a focused and disciplined learning environment. Cadets here are encouraged to engage in sports and other healthy activities for their well-being.
Q. Can you tell us more about the size of the student body and how you handle students who may be troubled or facing academic difficulties?
Air Commodore (R) Muhammad Azhar Rana: Currently, we have approximately 450 to 470 students enrolled from 6th to 12th grade. Some students may face challenges or enrol due to parental insistence.
Our faculty and administration pay special attention to such students, working on improving their academic performance and character.
It’s a challenging task, but we’re dedicated to guiding these students with care and attention.
Q. Could you share an inspiring success story of a former student, highlighting the impact of their education at Cadet College Jajja?
Air Commodore (R) Muhammad Azhar Rana: Certainly, one of our former students became an army officer and demonstrated immense courage and valour during a challenging operation. He not only saved himself but also contributed significantly to national security. This achievement fills us with pride and underscores the value of our institution’s education and character-building. Many students are now serving in other fields – a doctor in Balochistan who is now going to Australia for specialization. I feel proud to see our students excelling in different professions.
Inspiring Minds: Students Unleash their Scientific Curiosity
Q. Lastly, please share your vision for the future of the college and what you hope to achieve for your students.
Air Commodore (R) Muhammad Azhar Rana: In these rapidly changing times, our mission is to prepare our students to be honest, truthful, and responsible citizens. We aim to equip them with qualities that are increasingly rare in society. By fostering discipline and character, we hope to contribute to nation-building. Even if we can inspire just a portion of our society to be honest, truthful, and disciplined citizens, we consider it a significant achievement. We assign mentors to students who provide guidance and support. These mentors not only help academically but also serve as role models when it comes to discipline and responsible behaviour. We firmly believe in the potential of our students and their ability to maintain a positive, optimistic outlook as they embark on their life journeys.
Cadet College Jajja plays a pivotal role in nurturing the academic and personal growth of its students, with a strong emphasis on discipline and character development. The institution offers a range of facilities that go beyond the traditional educational experience, ultimately preparing students for successful careers, including military service.
Empowering Excellence: Impressive Infrastructure
With a focus on enhancing acceptance odds into esteemed institutions like the Pakistan Army, Air Force, and Navy, cadet colleges ensure that students are well-prepared to meet the rigorous standards of these professions.
Students in the college during a discussion express their contentment and enthusiasm about their boarding school experience. While many aspire to join the military, others are drawn to fields like mathematics, medicine, and information technology. Despite a rigorous daily schedule, they’ve adapted well and see it as a valuable part of their growth. The students commend their teachers for being supportive, approachable, and instrumental in both their academic and personal development. They appreciate that their teachers lend a patient ear to their concerns and actively contribute to their overall grooming for a successful future.
Precision in Motion: Students Marching with Pride
Championing Sportsmanship: Students in Action During Sports Week
Moreover, the commitment of the college’s management to providing a safe and secure learning environment, free from negative influences, sets the college apart. This is achieved through stringent security measures and a distraction-free atmosphere that allows cadets to concentrate on their studies. The combination of small, purposeful classes, structured evening study sessions, and an emphasis on self-sufficiency ensures that students receive personalized attention and develop strong organizational skills. Additionally, the provision of opportunities for personality grooming, character development, and the formation of enduring friendships makes the institution not only academically enriching but also conducive to personal growth and the fostering of long-lasting connections. The integration of sports and healthy activities further contributes to the overall well-being of cadets, emphasizing physical fitness and sportsmanship. In essence, this is a holistic platform that moulds well-rounded and capable individuals, equipping them for success in their chosen careers.
