The University of Karachi (KU) rolled out the red carpet for its newest scholars, hosting a grand reception ceremony to formally welcome the historic 75th batch of students. The vibrant event, held on Thursday, was a collaborative effort between the university administration and its global alumni network, Unikarian International.
A Ceremonial Welcome for New Scholars
The University Day festivities commenced with a solemn recitation from the Holy Qur'an by Huffaz. Following this, the new entrants, accompanied by university officials and alumni, formed a procession. They entered through the iconic Silver Jubilee Gate and proceeded to the main assembly point in the parking lot adjacent to the Administration Building.
The reception was graced by eminent personalities. The KU’s Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi led the event alongside the Chairman Sindh Higher Education Commission Professor Dr Tariq Rafi and the President Arts Council Karachi Mohammad Ahmed Shah. Professor Ejaz Ahmed Faruqi, President of Unikarian International, and Dr Syed Saif-ur-Rehman, Director General of the National Institute of Public Administration, were also key figures. A large gathering of deans, faculty members, syndicate and senate members, and administrative staff joined to celebrate the newcomers.
Leaders Impart Wisdom to the New Batch
During the formal ceremony, speakers addressed the fresh cohort, framing higher education as a transformative journey beyond academic degrees. Dr. Syed Asim Ali, who conducted the proceedings, provided a detailed overview of KU's rich history.
Professor Dr Tariq Rafi highlighted KU's stature as one of Pakistan's largest universities, renowned for producing distinguished graduates. He pointed out a significant positive trend: a notable rise in female admissions, especially in medicine, based purely on merit. However, he expressed deep concern that over 50 percent of female medical graduates do not enter professional practice, terming it a substantial loss for both the individuals and the nation. He urged female students to translate their education into practical service.
Mohammad Ahmed Shah paid tribute to parents, calling them the "true heroes" whose sacrifices make education possible. He reminded students that they carry their families' hopes and should strive to make them proud. He also expressed optimism about the increasing number of girls becoming pillars of support for their households through education.
Focus on Quality, Tolerance, and National Contribution
Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Iraqi stated that Pakistan must bridge the quality gap with developed nations in education. He stressed that societies progress on the foundations of justice, tolerance, and respectful dialogue. He assured that KU is committed to nurturing not just graduates but well-rounded individuals with intellectual, moral, and social maturity. He encouraged students to view Pakistan through a lens of potential and progress.
Professor Ejaz Faruqi of Unikarian International shared a striking fact about KU's research output, noting its volume surpasses the combined research of many other universities in Pakistan. He told students that their personality transformation begins at KU, shaping them into complete individuals.
Dr Syed Saif-ur-Rehman reflected on KU's founding in 1951 and its pivotal role in the development of Karachi and Pakistan. President of the Karachi University Teachers’ Society (KUTS), Syed Ghufran Alam, highlighted the privilege of university education, noting that only about 10% of Pakistan's population accesses it. He urged students to leverage this opportunity for national development. Students’ Advisor Dr Nausheen Raza briefed attendees on the university's vibrant curricular and co-curricular landscape and the various student societies.
The grand welcome for the 75th batch set a tone of high aspiration, responsibility, and community, marking the beginning of a new academic chapter at one of Pakistan's premier institutions.
