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Qandeel Murtaza, tailor’s daughter creates history with 17 gold medals at KP Medical College

Haripur student Qandeel Murtaza stuns convocation audience after winning a record 17 gold medals at Khyber Girls Medical College, inspiring students across Pakistan

Staff Reporter 02:03 PM, 11 May, 2026
Qandeel Murtaza holding gold medals at Khyber Girls Medical College convocation in Peshawar.
Caption: Qandeel Murtaza receives 17 gold medals during the Khyber Girls Medical College convocation ceremony 2026 in Peshawar. Chief Minister KP Sohail Afridi poses for a photo with Qandeel Murtaza and her parents on stage.

PESHAWAR: In a remarkable story of determination, academic brilliance, and perseverance, a tailor’s daughter from Haripur has made history at Khyber Girls Medical College (KGMC) by winning an unprecedented 17 gold medals in MBBS program — a milestone that has captured attention across Pakistan.

The extraordinary achievement by Qandeel Murtaza was celebrated during the college’s convocation ceremony in Peshawar, where applause echoed through the hall as her name was repeatedly announced for top academic honors.

Qandeel Murtaza feels proud after receiving 17 gold medals in MBBS program at Khyber Girls Medical College. Image courtesy of Express News.——————————————————————————————————

Her success has quickly become more than just a university achievement. For many, it represents the power of hard work, family support, and the growing strength of young Pakistani women in higher education and medicine.

The achievement places her among the highest-performing medical students in the institution’s history and has drawn widespread praise from faculty members, students, and education circles.

The convocation ceremony turned emotional and celebratory as dignitaries, teachers, and attendees applauded her exceptional performance.

Another high achiever, Muqaddas, secured 10 gold medals, while student Sabeen earned 7 gold medals for outstanding academic excellence.

Together, the students highlighted the growing academic competitiveness and talent emerging from medical institutions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

To honor the outstanding performance of these bright girls, Chief Minister KP Sohail Afridi himself presented them with the medals.

From a tailor’s home to medical excellence

What has made Qandeel’s success resonate deeply with people across the country is her humble background.

Belonging to Haripur, Qandeel Murtaza is the daughter of a tailor master — a detail that has transformed her academic success into an inspiring national story about resilience and opportunity.

Her journey reflects the aspirations of countless Pakistani families who invest everything they can into the education of their children despite financial limitations.

Observers say stories like Qandeel’s challenge long-standing social barriers and demonstrate how education continues to change lives across Pakistan.

Academic excellence runs in the family

Speaking after the ceremony, Qandeel shared that educational achievement has always been encouraged within her household.

Speaking to the media, Qandeel’s father shared details about the family’s educational accomplishments. He revealed that one of Qandeel’s sisters is currently studying at Khyber Medical College, while another serves as a Grade-17 officer in the Federal Investigation Agency.

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He further said that a third daughter holds a PhD and works in Islamabad, while their son is an engineering graduate.

A moment of inspiration for students nationwide

Education experts say achievements like this carry significance beyond medals and certificates.

At a time when Pakistan continues to grapple with educational inequality, financial barriers, and limited access to higher education for many girls, stories like Qandeel’s provide inspiration to students from ordinary backgrounds.

Her success is also being viewed as a powerful example of women excelling in medicine, science, and professional education in Pakistan.

Social media users and education communities have widely praised the students for proving that dedication and perseverance can overcome difficult circumstances.

Celebrating academic talent in Pakistan

The achievements of Qandeel Murtaza, Muqaddas, and Sabeen have sparked admiration not only within Khyber Girls Medical College but also among broader academic and healthcare circles.

Many believe such milestones should receive national recognition to encourage a culture that values scholarship, merit, and educational excellence.

As Pakistan’s medical sector continues to evolve, the emergence of highly accomplished young doctors is being seen as a positive sign for the future of healthcare and professional education in the country.


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