Governor Punjab and Patron UMT Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar shared his most sincere congratulations to the graduating students. He said that they are graduating from a reputable institution of learning and professional development. Over the past two decades, we have witnessed the growth of UMT under the dynamic leadership of the Late Dr Hasan Sohaib Murad. The Governor said that over the course of his long association with Dr Hasan, he found him to be a man of compassion and commitment who was dedicated to improve the quality of life of others. He awarded Rs 2.5 billion worth of scholarships which benefited 26,000 students. This speaks volumes for his generosity and vision.
In a country where 22 million children are out of school, the graduates gathered here today must count themselves fortunate to have the benefit of education from such a prestigious university. The credit for this goes to the parents. He advised the graduates to respect their parents and teachers and they will be successful in their endeavors.
On an important note, the Honorable Governor said that Pakistan faces many challenges in terms of sustainable development. The biggest challenge is to ensure equitable and quality education for all.
Universities have special responsibility to society. There are few institutions of higher learning that impart a well thought out education. No development is possible without an educated workforce. The economy is the foundation of progress whereas education provides the bricks and mortar for this progress. According to the latest reports, 64% of Pakistan’s population is below the age of 30 whereas 24% fall between the 15-29 age group. Pakistan has enormous potential for economic and human resource development. Pakistan’s IT related services crossed the 1$ billion mark. There is tremendous potential for growth in industrial sectors. Academia should promote research, development and commercialization of knowledge and technology to achieve development goals.
The Governor concluded his address by saying that all those assembled here today are empowered. As Nelson Mandela said, education is the most powerful weapon to change the world. He advised the graduates that as they embark on the next phase in their lives, they must make their university, teachers and parents proud.