Edwardes College Peshawar: A Legacy of Education in the Frontier
Edwardes College Peshawar, a semi-government degree college, stands as the oldest higher education institution in Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. From its humble beginnings as a school in 1855 to its current status as a degree-awarding college, Edwardes has played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of the region.
Origins and Early Years (1855-1900)
The story of Edwardes College begins with Sir Herbert Edwardes, commissioner of Peshawar from 1835 to 1858, who recognized the need for education among the Pakhtuns. He laid the foundation for a school in Peshawar, which, in 1855, was raised to the level of high school and affiliated with the Church Missionary Society, London. This marked the establishment of the first institution of western-style schooling in the northwest frontier region of British India.
In May 1900, the Church Missionary Society upgraded the school to a college, naming it Edwardes College in honor of Sir Herbert Edwardes. Mr. Henery Hoare was appointed as the first principal. Initially, the college was housed within the school building and had around 30 students. Despite its small size, the college aimed to be a "very real force in the moral and social culture" of the region.
The college prepared students for the Intermediate Arts Examination of the Punjab University. The subjects offered from 1900 to 1903 included English, Philosophy, History, Mathematics, Sanskrit, Persian, and Arabic.
Navigating Challenges and Growth (1908-1947)
The demand for college education was initially modest, with student numbers fluctuating around 30. However, the college persevered, offering subjects like English, Philosophy, History, Economics, Mathematics, Persian, Sanskrit, and Arabic.
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A significant challenge arose with the establishment of Islamia College in 1913. Some conservative families were hesitant to send their sons to a missionary college, leading to a decline in student numbers at Edwardes. In 1913, the number of students entering the first year decreased by over 75%. It took several years for the college to recover.
During this period, the college became known as Edwardes Church Mission College and remained affiliated with the University of Punjab. Despite the challenges, Edwardes College continued to play a vital role as the only college in the frontier.
Under principals like Canon R. H. Noble (1924-28), Rev. C. A. Bender (1928-37), and Rev. A. M. Dalaya (1937-47), the college reached a high point. Principal A. M. Dalaya was the first national to hold the position and was considered an outstanding leader. During his tenure, the college flourished in every field, gaining the support of the Governor, Sir George Cunningham.
Regular social work schemes were established, and the college fostered a spirit of harmony and fellowship among students of different communities and faiths.
Post-Independence Era and Nationalization (1947-1974)
Following Pakistan's independence in 1947, Edwardes College faced new challenges. However, it successfully navigated these challenges, including the controversy over the role of religion in the college during the 1950s and the nationalization of most church colleges in the 1970s.
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Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's nationalization policy led to the government taking over numerous educational institutions. Edwardes College was also slated for nationalization, threatening its independence and autonomy. A solution was sought through negotiations with the Education and Finance Secretaries and the Executive Committee, chaired by the Governor. This solution ultimately saved the college from nationalization.
Revival and Expansion (1980s-Present)
The 1980s and early 90s saw a revival of Edwardes College. In the late 1980s, Edwardes College School was established on the campus as a feeder school for the college.
Long a men's college, Edwardes became co-educational. A Women's Center was established in 2007, providing separate rooms for female teachers and students.
The college has expanded its academic programs over the years. In March 2010, the Board of Governors authorized the management to pursue degree-awarding status through the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ministry of Education and Provincial Assembly and the Federal Higher Education Commission.
Academics and Achievements
Edwardes College offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.), 4-year BS Programme in English and Computer Science, Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.), and 5-year LLB degrees awarded through the University of Peshawar. It also offers A-Level programs and Faculty of Arts (F.A.) and Faculty of Science (F.Sc.) certificates through the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
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The college has a vibrant community life, with freedom of worship for all faiths, sporting events, a debating society, drama productions, and student publications.
Edwardes College has produced numerous intellectuals who have served the nation in various fields. Alumni include Dr. Abdul Jabar Khan, Sardar Abdur Rab Nishtar, Sardar Aurangzeb Khan, Yahya Khan, Aftab Ahmed Sherpao, Fida Muhammad Khan, Ghulam Ahmed Bilour, General Arif Nawa, General Waheed Kakar, and Ahmed Faraz.
The Integrity Project
The Integrity Project, launched for all Edwardes students, is a compulsory weekly session that is an integral part of the personal development that Edwardes cultivates alongside its educational program. The project is designed to nurture ethical understanding, moral behavior, community responsibility, and servant leadership in students.
Mission
The mission of Edwardes College is to educate and develop professionals who will be servant leaders in meeting the challenges and opportunities of Pakistan today. The college aims to prepare students for leadership in various fields, fostering personal character, creativity, integrity, and responsibility.
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