KARACHI: The NED University of Engineering and Technology held its 33rd convocation on Tuesday on its main campus where 1,998 students – 1,700 Bachelor’s, 277 Master’s and 21 PhDs – received their degrees and certificates.

Twenty-nine students were awarded medals for their outstanding performance.

In his speech, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah congratulated the graduating students and acknowledged the university’s significant contributions to the cause of education and technological advancement in the country.

He also highlighted what he described as the enduring impact of NED alumni on Pakistan’s professional landscape, particularly their involvement in the development of transformative projects at the university.

About the government support to universities, the chief minister said funding to the public sector institutions of higher learning had been increased from Rs6bn to over Rs33 billion, reflecting its commitment to the youth and education.

“The government plans include the proposed NED University Science and Technology Park. The facility aims at enhancing collaboration among students, faculty, and industry stakeholders, thereby facilitating economic growth in the province,” he said, adding that the Peoples IT Programme aimed at familiarising students with advanced digital tools.

The chief minister also talked about the province’s ambitious reconstruction initiatives in the wake of devastating 2022 floods and called upon the people to support the government efforts, hoping that NED graduates would play a pivotal role in these endeavours.

In his remarks, Governor Kamran Tessori, who is also the Chancellor of public sector universities in the province, talked about how educated and skilled youth could contribute to country’s economy and development.

“Quality education and research can help overcome modern day’s challenges. Today’s students must equip themselves with the latest IT technology tools including Artificial Intelligence and opt for research. You don’t just need to work hard in your field, you need to excel and prove your mettle,” he emphasised.

Vice Chancellor Prof Sarosh Hashmat Lodi expressed gratitude to everyone, including the faculty, the provincial and the federal government, for their continued support to the university that, he said, had been crucial in providing students a positive academic environment on the campus.

Published in Dawn, October 30th, 2024