SIALKOT: The first annual convocation of the University of Management and Technology’s Sialkot Campus was held on Thursday.
As many as 275 graduates were awarded degrees, medals and cash prizes. Punjab Minister for Higher Education Syed Raza Ali Gillani was the chief guest of the event who gave away degrees and medals among the students.
According to the details, 130 undergraduates, 91 masters and 51 MPhil/MS degrees were given away followed by six patron medals, four rector medals, three rector academic awards, three certificates of excellence, one extracurricular award, three best research paper awards and six special awards. UMT Chairman Dr Hasan Sohaib Murad, UMT Rector Dr Muhammad Aslam, Director General Abid Sherwani, Sialkot Campus Director Syed Muhammad Bilal, registrar, examination controller and the deans and directors of various schools and departments were also present on the occasion.
Addressing the convocation, the minister said that education was the only way to bring a real change in the society. He said that many Pakistani students wished to study abroad, but they must not forget that Pakistan is a better place to make a career, where a lot of opportunities could be created.
He urged the students to transform themselves as entrepreneurs and not job-seekers, as the country has huge potential to invest in any area. The minister applauded the vision of UMT Chairman Dr Hassan Sohaib Murad for setting up a university in Sialkot and devoting to the cause of education.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Hassan Sohaib Murad said that establishing sub-campus in Pakistan’s industrial hub Sialkot was a long-awaited plan and it was completed with the grace of God. He added that Sialkot is the city of Allama Iqbal, the poet and thinker of Pakistan, who awakened the nation from a deep slumber.
He said that Sialkot has always stood up with the whole country and exported sporting goods worldwide, which are also used in the international brands. He added that in 2014’s FIFA World Cup, football manufactured by Sialkot’s business community was a big success.
Dr Murad advised the students to adopt a realistic approach, respect the parents, and work hard for their professional growth. He said that UMT is a university for entrepreneurs which is producing business leaders of tomorrow.
Expressing his views, UMT Rector Dr Muhamma Aslam congratulated the graduates, teachers and parents for making this day a special one. He urged the students to continue the process of learning throughout their life.