DNA
Islamabad, Jan 23: A two-day National Convention entitled “Youth – Pivot of National Integration” began at Jinnah Convention Centre, Islamabad under the aegis of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan.
The grand assembly of university students is aimed to celebrate the exceptional accomplishments of the country’s young population and to foster a spirit of national integration and inter-provincial harmony.
Chairman Senate of Pakistan Mr. Sadiq Sanjrani was chief guest at the opening ceremony. Minister of Federal Education and Professional Training Mr. Madad Ali Sindhi, Senator Behramand Tangi, Chairman HEC Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Executive Director HEC Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum, vice chancellors, faculty members and a large number of students from across the country attended the event.
Addressing the students, Mr. Sanjrani emphasised the need for forging national unity, optimistic approach, and commitment to taking the country forward. He noted that Pakistan is making progress despite challenges.
“Pakistan is blessed with ample natural resources. The responsibility to preserve and exploit these resources rests on the Pakistani nation, especially the youth.” He also highlighted the important role of teachers in building the future of a nation.
Mr. Sanjrani encouraged students to value their educational opportunities and to actively engage in the pursuit of knowledge. He expressed his belief that an educated and empowered youth is the key to overcoming challenges and steering the country towards a brighter future. He called for a spirit of inclusivity and collaboration among the diverse segments of Pakistani society. He emphasised that national unity is crucial in facing the multifaceted challenges that the country encounters. By fostering understanding, tolerance, and mutual respect, he believes that the people of Pakistan can collectively work towards progress and development.
In his welcome remarks, Chairman HEC Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed said the objective of the National Convention is to make sure that the youth of Pakistan utilize their potential for country’s progress. He stated that it is essential to provide equal opportunities to youth to pave the way for national development. “We have to play our role in our respective domains, setting aside our personal gains, interests and differences for the sake of our motherland,” he stressed.
On this occasion, young high achievers of various fields of life presented their inspiring stories to motivate the youth. Dr. Hafiz Waleed Ali, who won 29 Gold Medals in MBBS; Ms. Sibel Afzal Satt, fighter Pilot Officer Pakistan Airforce; Mr. Ali Gohar, an artist who lost his arms to electrocution and has won laurels for his paintings he made through his feet; Ms. Maria Shamoon, first female Christian Assistant Commissioner from Balochistan; Mr. Umer Adil, winner of World Film Festival 2023 – Cannes; Sumaiya Bibi, winner of Ziad Sustainability Prize 2024; and Amtul Rehman, outstanding international athlete; and Manisha Ali and Maliha Ali, international Taekwondo players shared the inspiring stories of their life for the encouragement of students.
Sharing her inspiring story, Ms. Sibel Afzal Satt, fighter pilot of Pakistan Airforce, said it was her dream to become a part of Pakistan Airforce as a fighter pilot. Reflecting on the realisation of her childhood dream, she highlighted the profound responsibilities that accompany the prestigious role she now holds. She expressed a deep commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty of Pakistan and contributing to the defence and security of the nation.
Ms. Maria shared the ordeals of her life before topping the Provincial Civil Services examination and joining the provincial services. Similarly, other high achievers presented their inspirational stories and rise to professional excellence to set examples and role models for others.
