The 24th Convocation of Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University in Rawalpindi marked a significant milestone, celebrating the academic achievements of 8,222 graduates from the 2022 and 2023 sessions. The ceremony, graced by Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan as Chief Guest and Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Chairman of Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC), as Guest of Honour, highlighted the university’s pivotal role in shaping the future of agriculture and technology in Pakistan.
Governor Khan’s address underscored the critical importance of innovation in agriculture for Pakistan’s self-reliance. He urged graduates to embrace modern technology and pursue progress, emphasizing that external validation would naturally follow. His words resonated deeply, as the university has long been a beacon of agricultural research and development. The governor also paid tribute to the resilience of the Pakistani nation, noting its triumphs in the face of adversity and the global recognition of its green passport.
The convocation was a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence, with degrees awarded to 4,303 graduates in 2022 and 3,919 in 2023. Among these, 69 and 86 PhD degrees were conferred respectively, along with numerous gold, silver, and bronze medals. Special honors were also bestowed upon outstanding graduates, including the Bank of Punjab Gold Medal and the Literacy Centre Student Medal.
Governor Khan’s advice to the graduates to honor their parents, whether by touching their feet or visiting their graves, added a poignant touch to the ceremony. He commended the university’s leadership for their transformative efforts and pledged continued support for its vision.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, in his address, commended the graduates for their perseverance and highlighted the role of education in national development. He acknowledged the sacrifices of parents and urged graduates to prioritize Pakistan’s growth, reaffirming HEC’s commitment to research-driven education.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qamaruz Zaman celebrated the graduates’ accomplishments and outlined the university’s milestones since its inception in 1994. Under his tenure from 2019 to 2023, the university has made significant strides, including the establishment of pioneering centers such as the CPEC Agriculture Cooperation Centre, National Centre for Livestock Breeding and Genomics, and Centre for Precision Agriculture. The university is also set to launch 23 AI-integrated undergraduate and graduate programs in Fall 2025 and expand access through the Attock Sub-Campus.
The implications of this convocation are far-reaching. The emphasis on modern technology and innovation in agriculture aligns with global trends towards sustainable and efficient farming practices. The university’s initiatives, such as the Centre for Precision Agriculture and AI-integrated programs, position it at the forefront of agricultural education and research. This not only enhances the employability of graduates but also contributes to the broader goal of food security and sustainable development in Pakistan.
Moreover, the establishment of specialized centers and the expansion of digital infrastructure reflect the university’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve. By integrating AI and other advanced technologies into its curriculum, the university is preparing its students to meet the challenges of the future, thereby driving progress in the agricultural sector and beyond.
The convocation also served as a reminder of the importance of education in national development. The achievements of the graduates are a testament to their hard work and the support of their families and the university. As they step into the professional world, they carry with them the legacy of integrity and innovation, poised to make significant contributions to Pakistan’s growth and development.