Naila Kiani, Pakistan’s foremost female high-altitude mountaineer, has been appointed as the Girls’ Education National Goodwill Ambassador by the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training. Kiani, celebrated for her extraordinary achievements in mountaineering, now aims to champion the cause of girls’ education across the nation.
Kiani’s mountaineering record is unparalleled. She is the first Pakistani woman, and the third Pakistani overall, to have scaled 11 of the world’s 14 highest peaks above 8,000 metres. Her impressive list of summits includes Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum I, Gasherbrum II, Lhotse, Manaslu, Broad Peak, Annapurna, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. Notably, she became the first Pakistani woman to climb an 8,000-metre peak in Pakistan.
In 2023, Kiani joined an elite group of ten global mountaineers, and became the only Pakistani to climb seven peaks above 8,000 metres within a span of six months. She holds the distinction of being the fastest Pakistani, regardless of gender, to have ascended all eleven 8,000-metre peaks in under three years. Her contributions to sports have been recognized with the Sitara-e-Imtiaz, the highest civilian honour awarded to any female athlete in Pakistan.
In her new role, Kiani is set to advocate for girls’ education, supporting initiatives by both federal and provincial governments. An aerospace engineer and banker by profession, Kiani has always been a strong proponent of education as a fundamental pillar of women’s empowerment.
“I am honoured to be appointed as the National Goodwill Ambassador for Girls’ Education,” Kiani said upon her appointment. “Education is the only route to women’s empowerment and success for our country. I am committed to using my platform to support and advocate for educational initiatives that ensure every girl in Pakistan has access to quality education.”
Kiani’s appointment underscores her dedication to empowering women through education. As she embarks on this new journey, her commitment to raising awareness and enhancing educational opportunities for girls in Pakistan is set to inspire and drive meaningful change across the country.
Leave a Reply