Established in 1860 and named after Sir Henry Lawrence, the Lawrence College Ghora Gali (LCGG) stands as the oldest residential institution of its kind in Pakistan. Nestled in the serene town of Murree, this prestigious institution is situated amidst the breathtaking Himalayan foothills, perched at an elevation of approximately 1950 meters (6397 feet) above sea level, in a lush pine-covered landscape. Encompassing a sprawling area of 150 acres, it is located just 2 km away from the Rawalpindi-Murree Road, 4 km from Murree, and approximately 57 km from Rawalpindi. Boasting a rich history spanning over 160 years, Lawrence College takes immense pride in its distinctive character and illustrious traditions, both in the academic and extracurricular domains, lovingly referred to by its students as ‘Gallians.’ The motto of the college is “Never Give In.” At the heart of Lawrence College Ghora Gali’s tradition lies a strong sense of community with the college song emphasizing unity, proclaiming, “Henceforth the school and you are one – and what you are, the race shall be.”
The history of Lawrence College, Ghora Gali, is deeply intertwined with its origin as an asylum for the orphans of British soldiers in 1860. Initially, the school was co-education, but since Independence, it has been an exclusively boys’ college. This noble establishment was created in posthumous memory of Sir Henry Montgomery Lawrence, a distinguished British soldier and statesman. Sir Henry Lawrence, born in 1806 in Ceylon (present-day Sri Lanka), had a remarkable career, serving in the East India Company.
He ascended to the rank of Brigadier General in the Bengal Artillery and actively participated in pivotal issues concerning the British Raj. His contributions included involvement in areas like the revenue system, the canal system, and road development. The enduring legacy of Sir Henry Lawrence, brought to life by the college established in his honour, is a testament to the illustrious history and values that this institution upholds. Lawrence College, Ghora Gali, has firmly held its place as one of the most esteemed educational institutions on the Indian Subcontinent since its inception.
The picturesque campus features colonial-style sloping roofs framed by lush hills, with the iconic 1881-built Chapel standing out. Initially repurposed as a music and handicraft space in the 1980s, it was subsequently restored in 2007 as a local Christian church.
Occasional church services are still held here, preserving its religious, historical, and architectural significance. Other notable campus structures include Lawrence Hall, an old auditorium hosting debates and mushairas, sometimes graced by dignitaries.
The college boasts a central clock tower, a monument commemorating alumni martyrs, dormitories, classroom blocks, hobby clubs, libraries, and more, thoughtfully designed to maintain architectural coherence. Additional facilities from 1891 include a small hospital, a boys’ workshop, and a rifle range.
With its extensive history, Lawrence College boasts a distinguished roster of alumni spanning politics, bureaucracy, military service, civil society, and the corporate and business world. Notable names include former Prime Ministers of Pakistan Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali, as well as politicians like Mumtaz Bhutto from Sindh, Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sarfraz Bugti from Balochistan, and the former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Raja Muhammad Zulqarnain Khan.
Other prominent figures associated with the college include the columnist and politician Ayaz Amir, the artist Ismail Gulgee, the businessman and entrepreneur Ikram Sehgal, the film star Waheed Murad, and the television actor Bilal Abbas Khan. Additionally, a small British cemetery within the school premises serves as a solemn reminder of soldiers from India and Pakistan who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II.
There were three spectacular events held in the college recently, here is the overview:
A Spectacular Showcase of Talent: Lawrence College’s 163rd Founders’ Day
Lawrence College celebrated its 163rd Founders’ Day on September 28, 2023 in the grandeur of Jamali Stadium. This remarkable event brought together a multitude of talents and received high praise from esteemed guests in attendance.
The event was graced by Maj Gen Muhammad Irfan, GOC 12 Division, who served as the Chief Guest. Eminent Old Gallians and proud parents, among other distinguished guests, were also present, enhancing the grandeur of the occasion.
The event featured captivating spectacles, including an impressive march-past, enthralling PT displays, breathtaking gymnastics, and precision archery. The Principal, Brig Mujahid Alam (Retd), delivered the College’s Annual Report, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Guest and other attendees. He reiterated the College’s dedication to nurturing and preparing students for a promising future.
Maj Gen Muhammad Irfan commended the exceptional performances of the College houses, with special recognition for Walker House, the winner of the Cock House Shield, and Peake House as the Runners-up.
He emphasized the importance of understanding and upholding the College motto. The Chief Guest also acknowledged the valuable contributions of the College’s management, faculty, and students to various aspects of College life.
The event concluded with a delightful spread of refreshments, providing a fitting conclusion to a day filled with remarkable displays of talent. Before Founders’ Day, the College hosted a three-day Annual Performing Arts Show with Dr Najeeba Arif, Chairperson of the Pakistan Academy of Letters as the Chief Guest.
The show featured an array of mesmerizing songs, captivating dances, and riveting English and Urdu plays, showcasing the extraordinary talents of the students from all three schools at Lawrence College.
Empowering Futures: Lawrence College’s Education and Career Expo 2023
On October 5th, Lawrence College witnessed an exceptional event – the Education and Career Expo 2023. The College’s Counselling and Guidance Cell hosted this event, this educational extravaganza drew together 17 organizations, including universities, foreign education advisors, and professional counsellors from various regions like Islamabad, Lahore, KPK, and Rawalpindi.
The event aimed to guide students regarding their future academic and professional plans, a feat accomplished with great success. This expo wasn’t limited to Lawrence College students alone. More than 450 students from various colleges in Murree also participated, seizing the opportunity to explore and plan their future. The project garnered acclaim from the staff and management of these colleges, who lauded it as an extraordinary exposure experience for local students. The Principal expressed his satisfaction and appreciation for the dedicated department that orchestrated the event.
He affirmed the College’s commitment to continue such activities in the future and extended his heartfelt thanks to the participating universities and counsellors who collaborated with Lawrence College in this important endeavour.
Annual Alumni Reunion at Lawrence College: A Heartfelt Gathering of Gallians
For several years now, Lawrence College has upheld the cherished tradition of the Annual Alumni Reunion, providing a special occasion for former students to rekindle their fond memories at this esteemed institution. Not only does this gathering allow alumni to connect and reminisce, but it also offers the College administration a unique opportunity to engage with alumni keen on the College’s welfare. This tradition was temporarily paused due to the Covid-19 restrictions, with a hiatus lasting about three years.
However, on the 8th of October 2023, Lawrence College proudly welcomed back approximately 160 old Gallians for the latest Alumni Reunion. The Principal warmly greeted the alumni attendees in Hamid Hall, where he shared insights into the College’s ongoing progress and development. The occasion also served as a platform to extend gratitude to those generous old Gallians who had donated to various College projects and the Welfare Fund for the Junior Staff.
Furthermore, the Principal expressed his appreciation for Mr. Ajmal Gondal, President OGAP, and other office bearers who spearheaded the reunion. He assured all Gallians of the College’s unwavering support and cooperation for such events. During the event, the alumni had the opportunity to ask questions, provide suggestions, and share their viewpoints. Notably, Mr. Zulfiqar Ali Chattha and Mr. Iftikhar Ali Chattha, two distinguished Gallians who are also brothers, announced a generous donation of ten million Rupees for the Welfare Fund. Their contribution was met with wholehearted appreciation from the Principal and fellow Gallians. The occasion also saw the Senior Most Gallian present, Lt Col (R) Mumtaz Khan, expressing his gratitude for the College’s support in hosting the reunion.
He emphasized the importance of Gallians actively contributing to both their alma mater and the nation. Mr. Sarfraz Bugti, the Interim Interior Minister, briefly addressed the audience, reiterating his commitment to serving Pakistan. In the spirit of camaraderie, an exhilarating basketball match pitted the Gallians against the Old Gallians, with the latter emerging victorious. Nostalgia was in the air as old Gallians revisited their Houses and other College facilities while interacting with the current students and staff. The Alumni Reunion concluded on a high note with a delectable lunch in the main clock tower lawn, reinforcing the enduring connection between Lawrence College and its beloved Gallians.
Brig (R) Mujahid Alam, highlights their focus on more than just academic excellence. They prioritize character development and personality enhancement in students. These values encompass respect for co-existence, patriotism, gender equality, diversity, integrity, and compassion for the less fortunate.
The college ensures that students learn early on to respect junior staff, individuals with disabilities, underprivileged segments of society, and the environment. Organizing school excursions to sporting events, theatres, museums, and various co-curricular and extracurricular activities contributes to moulding students into well-rounded individuals, equipping them for real-world challenges.
Religious and cultural activities offer a welcome break from the routine of boarding school life. Lawrence College fosters a sense of community among students, facilitating cross-cultural exchanges among those hailing from different regions of the country, including remote areas like Gilgit-Baltistan, interior Sindh, and Balochistan.
