A fourth-grade Christian student in a government primary school in Gujranwala, Pakistan, has faced ongoing harassment from her Muslim classmates over her faith, sources say.
Maryam Hadayat told local media that her classmates mocked her religion and pressured her to convert to Islam. Despite reporting the incidents to teachers, no action was taken. When she confided in her grandmother after returning home in tears, the family attempted to address the situation with school staff. However, the teacher reportedly scolded Maryam afterwards, warning that she could be expelled if she reported any further incidents.
Maryam’s grandmother criticised the school, claiming that some teachers prioritise religious preaching over education. Observers note that Christian children in Pakistan’s government schools often face similar treatment, including verbal abuse and pressure to adopt Islam. In some cases, teachers reportedly mock Christian beliefs, declare the Bible “corrupted,” and portray Christian students as blasphemers.
Peer discrimination is also widespread. Christian students are sometimes denied access to shared utensils, or told they must convert to Islam to earn respect from classmates. Experts say such behaviour reflects systemic issues in Pakistan’s educational system, where Islamic teachings are deeply integrated into most subjects, and minority faiths receive little protection.
Human rights advocates have called on the Pakistani government to intervene and ensure that schools do not discriminate against students based on religion, emphasising that education should nurture learning and respect rather than humiliation.
Adapted from International Christian Concern.
