Lahore (Web Desk/Agencies): Eight talented Pakistani students were awarded prestigious Quill and Scroll Gold Keys for their submissions in the Editorial Writing Contest, co-sponsored by Eye on Ivy and Quill and Scroll in an impressive event in Lahore.
Founded in 1926 at the University of Iowa, Quill and Scroll is an international honor society for high school journalists. It boasts over 11,300 chapters across 50 US states, D.C., and 29 countries.
The winning editorials tackled a pressing issue facing Pakistani youth: the impact of the pandemic on mental health.
The students' articles showcased insightful analysis and compelling arguments. They explored the specific struggles of mental health in Pakistan, addressed the stigma surrounding seeking help, and offered solutions for creating a more supportive environment.
The Editorial Writing Contest saw outstanding submissions across both Category levels. In A Category (Grades 9-10), Ayaan Shahbaz from Learning Alliance DHA emerged victorious, claiming the first-place title. Rohaan Imran from Lahore Grammar School Phase 5 and Menaal Kashif from Learning Alliance International secured second and third place respectively. Eshal Yasir's editorial earned her an honorable mention. Eshal is from Learning Alliance International.
Category B (Grades 11-13) also produced exceptional work. Natalia Syed's compelling arguments impressed the judges, awarding her the first position She represents Learning Alliance DHA. Laiba Fawad from Learning Alliance DHA and Syeda Imaan Shiraz from Headstart Gulmohar received second and third place. A student from Learning Alliance International, Nur Ali's work earned her an honorable mention.
The winning students are now eligible to apply for Quill and Scroll scholarships, opening doors to study journalism or participate in student media at U.S. colleges and universities.
Toward the end of the event, sixteen students were inducted into the Quill & Scroll Honorary Society in an impressive oath-taking ceremony. Students had to meet a rigorous criteria to qualify for induction including proof of three works of publication, academic performance higher than a B average, and a letter of recommendation from an English Language or Literature teacher. Names of inductee students are Abeer Jalal from Learning Alliance DHA, Annaya Irfan from Roots International, Areeba Saleha from Beaconhouse Newlands, Biah Umer Khan from SICAS DHA, Emaan Zoeed from Lahore American School, Hassan Attique from Lahore Grammar School Landmark, Hibah Faisal from SICAS DHA, Ibrahim Faisal Deen from Aitchison College, Maryam Imam from Headstart Gulmohar Campus, Moeid Irfan Warraich from Cadet College Hasanabdal, Muhammad Talha Malik from The International School of Choueifat, Natalia Syed from Learning Alliance DHA, Qazi Ammaz Farooqi from Beaconhouse College Gulberg, Samin (salmon) Raza from Future World School, Walid Amir from Aitchison College and Zunaira Waheed from The International School of Choueifat Oman. Eye on Ivy and Quill and Scroll remain committed to nurturing a culture of critical thinking and strong writing among young journalists in Pakistan.
