Madam Farkhanda Abid
Headmistress
Madam Farkhanda Abid
Madam Farkhanda Abid stands as a shining example of the dedication that defined ICB’s golden era. For 35 years, she nurtured young minds not only with knowledge and discipline, but with motherly care and compassion. Always soft-spoken and gentle, she created classrooms where children felt safe, valued, and encouraged, leaving a lasting impression on every child who passed through her care.
Her leadership reflected the very soul of ICB’s junior section—firm in principle, yet kind in spirit. Through her guidance, generations learned not only science, but also patience, empathy, and respect for others. She was part of an extraordinary group of teachers who believed education to be a sacred trust, and who shaped character as thoughtfully as they shaped intellect.
Those classrooms produced confident students and responsible citizens, many of whom still carry the values instilled in them decades later. Even after the passage of time, Madam Farkhanda Abid is remembered with deep gratitude and pride, her warmth and kindness living on in memory. It was truly a golden era—made timeless by teachers like her and her devoted colleagues at ICB.
Our heartfelt appreciation is also extended to Madam Shahnaz Ellahie, who helped ICBian.com create this beautiful profile of Madam Farkhanda. Madam Shahnaz is a distinguished teacher of ICB’s golden era. Her own years of devoted service helped shape generations with wisdom and grace. Through her thoughtful effort in preserving and sharing these memories, she has ensured that the legacy of her fellow educator lives on. This tribute stands not only as a remembrance of Madam Farkhanda Abid, but also as a reflection of Madam Shahnaz Ellahie’s enduring love for ICB and its teachers.
A Life Devoted to Education, Character, and Generations of Young Minds
Some educators teach lessons.
A rare few shape lives.
Madam Farkhanda Abid belongs to that rare and cherished category of teachers whose influence has gently but permanently marked generations of students—many of whom, even after six decades, still remember her with love, gratitude, and reverence.
Visit by Director Education at ICB, G-6/3
Sports Day at ICB, G-6/3, attended as Chief Guest after retirement
The Beginning of a Distinguished Journey (1971)
Madam Farkhanda Abid joined Islamabad College for Boys (ICB) in November 1971, beginning what would become a 35-year-long journey of unwavering service to education.
She started her career as a Science Teacher, bringing with her clarity of thought, discipline, and a deep understanding of how young minds learn—especially at the foundational level.
From the very early years, she was entrusted with responsibilities beyond routine teaching, a reflection of the confidence placed in her by the institution.
As Headmistress in ICB, G-6/3
As Headmistress in office F-11/1
A Life Dedicated to Education
Madam Farkhanda Abid served with distinction as Headmistress (ICB), leading both morning and evening shifts with unwavering commitment. Her days were devoted more to the school than to her own home, reflecting her deep sense of responsibility and passion for education.
Through her tireless efforts, discipline, and leadership, she shaped not only the institution but also the lives of countless students and teachers. Her selfless service stands as a true example of dedication, integrity, and lifelong commitment to the noble cause of education.
Academic Leadership & Curriculum Excellence
In addition to classroom teaching, Madam Farkhanda Abid served as:
- Examinations In-Charge
- Subject Specialist (Science)
- Coordinator of Co-Curricular Activities
She played a key role in planning and structuring the science curriculum for Classes 3 to 5, ensuring that learning was not just theoretical, but engaging, age-appropriate, and conceptually strong.
During this formative period, she worked under the guidance of Mrs. Shuja, benefiting from and contributing to a culture of academic excellence that defined ICB’s junior section.
Sports Day at ICB, G-6/3
Sports Day at IMCB, F-11/1
A Call to National Service: Headmistress, Model School F-11/1
In 1998, while already serving ICB with distinction, Madam Farkhanda Abid was selected for an exceptional responsibility.
She was appointed Headmistress of a newly established, modern government school in F-11/1, a model institution envisioned to be developed on the principles and standards of ICB.
Working closely with Mr. Wajid Nawaz—also a former ICB teacher who had been appointed Principal—she contributed to:
- Designing teaching methodologies
- Training staff
- Establishing academic discipline
- Replicating ICB’s educational ethos
This appointment was both an honour and recognition, as ICB was among the pioneer institutions whose standards were considered worthy of replication.
Returning Home: Leadership at ICB
After serving two impactful years at the F-11/1 institution, Madam Farkhanda Abid returned to ICB, the school that had become her academic home.
She was appointed Headmistress of the Junior Section, a role she would hold with distinction until her retirement in July 2006.
Leading a highly respected faculty, she upheld:
- Strong academic standards
- Ethical discipline
- A nurturing environment for young learners
Her tenure as Headmistress remains one of quiet strength, consistency, and grace, leaving behind a system that continued to benefit students long after her retirement.
Retired from ICB in 2006
Farewell gift presented by Mr Anwar Ali Khan, Principal
35 Years of Commitment & Grace
Madam Farkhanda Abid’s career spans three and a half decades—years marked by dedication, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose.
She often expresses gratitude for the support of her loving husband, Mr. Abid Butt, whose encouragement enabled her to balance professional excellence with family life.
Together, they raised two children:
- Hamna Abid
- Hamad Abid
Both received their education at ICB, reflecting the family’s faith in the institution she so dearly served.
A Legacy Reflected Through Family & Students
The values Madam Farkhanda instilled at home mirrored those she practiced at school.
- Hamad Abid achieved 3rd position in the FSc Board Examination, a testament to academic discipline and dedication.
- Hamna Abid, while not entering the teaching profession, pursued higher education and played a vital role in home tutoring and nurturing the next generation.
Today, her grandchildren are studying medicine in the United Kingdom, preparing to become doctors—another chapter in a family legacy rooted in service and education.
ICB: A Golden Chapter of Life
For Madam Farkhanda Abid, ICB was not merely a workplace.
It was:
- A community
- A mission
- A defining chapter of her life
She fondly remembers her years at ICB as “the golden period”—a time of fulfillment, respect, and meaningful contribution.
An Enduring Memory
Teachers retire from service.
But true educators never retire from memory.
Madam Farkhanda Abid lives on in:
- The foundations she strengthened
- The teachers she mentored
- The students who still smile when they hear her name
Her story is not just a profile—it is a tribute to the power of sincere teaching, and a reminder of how one dedicated educator can leave an imprint that lasts a lifetime.
Cherish the golden days of ICB with us!
Cherish the golden days of ICB with us, where every page tells a story of friendship, growth, and unforgettable moments. Celebrate the spirit of ICB with us, as we reconnect with the past and honor the roots that made us who we are today. Walk through the halls of nostalgia with ICBians.com, where every profile is a tribute to the timeless magic of ICB.