The 16th convocation of Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi held

Lahore : The 16^th convocation of Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi was held at the Jinnah Convention Center, Islamabad to commemorate the academic accomplishments of its students and outstanding achievements in their academic career.

Chief Guest Syed Raza Ali Gillani, Minister for Higher Education Punjab and Pro Chancellor, conferred degrees on the graduating students at Bachelors, Masters, MPhil and PhD. Levels.

A total of 1409 students were awarded various degrees; including four PhDs, 53 MPhils, 616 Masters and 736 Bachelors. Moreover, 70 gold and silver medals were also awarded to the students having distinction in their respective programs.

The event was attended by Chairperson, Punjab Higher Education Commission Prof. Dr. Muhammad Nizamuddin, Executive Director HEC Dr. Arshad Ali, Vice Chancellor Arid Agriculture University Dr. Rai Muhammad Niaz, Chairman Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education Rawalpindi Dr. Muhammad Zarif, students and their parents attended the convocation.

In his address, the chief guest Raza Gillani said that Pakistani students are the best in ability, confidence and knowledge; and added they were excelling in various disciplines in the entire world. He said that we can improve ourselves by seeking knowledge in accordance to the international standards and requirements.

He was of the view that Pakistani students should seek knowledge across the world, but should prefer to serve in Pakistan for the sake of love of country and the nation. He lauded the valuable contributions of teaching faculty and parents for supporting students in acquiring higher education.

The Provincial Minister said that government is committed to make far-reaching educational reforms and special focus has been given on promotion of basic as well as higher education. He said that government is investing for the future of Pakistan and they have been provided modern facilities and opportunities.

The Minister was glad to know that 52 percent of outgoing students of Fatima Jinnah Women University were getting jobs; and termed it a source of satisfaction that students are excelling in market-oriented subjects. Today is a momentous occasion for passing out students as their hard work, commitment to excellence and efforts have borne fruit. He advised that this degree is only the beginning of another phase of their lives. It is a stepping stone from an academic environment into the rigors and challenges of practical life, where the skills they have accumulated throughout their lives, will be put to test. It is imperative that they continue to strive and work hard, and prove their mettle.

He further said, “I am confident that you will make your alma mater, teachers and parents proud with your professionalism, honesty and integrity. He added that institutions of higher education have great responsibilities for producing quality graduates to contribute to the growth and development of the country; and added that he finds satisfaction and encouragement in the fact that Fatima Jinnah Women University is contributing towards this and developing the human resource of the country.

He highlighted the commitment of Government of the Punjab in providing quality higher education, at par with international levels, and vowed to build and develop knowledge economy of this country. With this goal in mind, the Government has set up Punjab Higher Education Commission, which, since its inception, has been committed to development, expansion and progress, through its numerous initiatives. Government of the Punjab is committed to increase equitable access, through upgrading academic standards, promoting research, and introducing and facilitating faculty development programs.

Raza Gillani concluded his address by congratulating the University graduates with the remarks, “I can only imagine the social pressures a woman in our society faces to reach where you have reached today. This makes your achievement all the more remarkable and admirable. But this should also be a reminder, that you are the privileged few who were given this opportunity. Your contribution and conduct in the society, and in your professional lives, will pave the way for other women to follow in your footsteps.”

In her welcome address, the Vice Chancellor Dr. Samina Amin Qadir congratulated the students and their parents, and wished them a prosperous future. She also admired the students honored with medals for their dedication and outstanding achievements in their academic career at the convocation.

She highlighted the achievements of the university since last year both in expanding the facilities and infrastructure along with addition of diversity in academic programs through the addition of two new undergraduate programs in Anthropology and Sociology. She informed that construction of academic block was being planned at the city campus. The project is proposed to be funded by the Punjab government at an estimated cost of Rs. 566.584 million. This academic block will be constructed to accommodate eight new market-oriented disciplines. She said that FJWU is doing its best to provide international exposure to its students and faculty by encouraging participation in international and national conferences.

The building of faculty of education department, construction of Campus- II at Chakri Road and girls’ hostel at city campus are adding to the provision of infrastructure for students.

She added that Career Counseling Centre funded by Punjab Higher Education Commission would help students to maintain a balanced professional life with a clear vision in their minds.

Later, Raza Gillani distributed awards and medals in the students.