The death of an IIUI gold medalist in Islamabad has drawn wide attention, after her family said an education consultant defrauded them of millions of rupees. The consultant had promised her admission to a US university, Pakistani media reported on Saturday. The student, identified only as Laiba in the reports, was a graduate of the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI).
What the reports say
According to Samaa, Laiba was 24 and had completed her BS degree with a gold medal. She studied on a scholarship and dreamed of becoming a physicist. She hoped to study in the United States. Daily Times said she was from Sector G-10 in Islamabad.
Aaj News described her death as a suspected suicide, citing the family. Daily Times reported that investigators are waiting for the official post-mortem report to confirm the cause. Funeral prayers were held in G-10, and she was buried in the H-11 graveyard, Samaa reported.
The alleged fraud
The family says the consultant demanded Rs7 million to arrange her admission. Her father, a milk seller who worked to pay for his children’s education, sold a plot of land and paid Rs2.1 million. Her mother pledged her jewellery at a bank to raise the rest. Samaa reported that the family believes the consultant received about Rs5 million.
Later, the family found that the documents were fake. Samaa said these included admission papers, a visa and bank statements. The reports do not name the consultant or the university. Wire Examiner is not naming anyone, because the claims are allegations that have not been tested in court.
Police and FIA response
Islamabad police have launched an investigation into the alleged scam and the circumstances of her death, Aaj News reported. However, the reports differ on one point. Daily Times said a formal case has been registered, while Samaa said an initial report was recorded and an FIR is expected after the post-mortem. Samaa also reported that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) took notice and contacted the family.
The family has appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for action and accountability.
Calls for stricter rules
Consumer rights advocates urged the government to regulate education consultants more strictly. Education experts advised students and parents to verify admission letters directly on official university portals before sending any money. Social activists also called for more mental health support for young graduates under heavy pressure.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please talk to someone you trust. Rozan’s counseling helpline in Pakistan is 0304-111-1741, open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In an emergency, contact local emergency services.
Sources: Aaj News, Daily Times, Samaa.
