A Pakistani-origin teacher has been praised for his bravery in the United Kingdom after he was stabbed while trying to protect students during a knife attack at a school in Manchester. The incident has drawn widespread attention, with many describing his actions as heroic.
The teacher, identified as Maysam Abdullah, was injured when he intervened during the attack at Co-op Academy Manchester earlier this week. According to reports, Abdullah stepped in to shield students after violence erupted inside the school. Two 14-year-old students were also injured in the incident but were later discharged from hospital after receiving treatment.
Police have charged a 14-year-old girl in connection with the attack. She faces three counts of attempted murder, along with two counts of possessing a bladed article on school premises. The teenager was scheduled to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London as legal proceedings begin.
Abdullah is currently recovering at home with his wife as the family comes to terms with the traumatic experience. His wife said he was hurt while attempting to protect pupils from a serious attack inside his classroom. Although his injuries were not considered life-threatening, she explained that the emotional impact on the family has been profound.
Describing her husband as a dedicated educator, she said Abdullah entered the teaching profession with the goal of making a positive difference in the lives of young people. She called him a hero for putting the safety of his students before his own and also expressed sympathy and support for the injured pupils and everyone affected by the incident.
Police said counterterrorism officers are assisting with the investigation, although authorities have not classified the case as terror-related. The suspect was initially detained under the Mental Health Act before being transferred to police custody following advice from health professionals. Investigators said inquiries remain ongoing as officers continue to support the victims, their families, and the wider school community.
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