Mehran University Honors 1007 Graduates in Grand 29th Convocation Ceremony
The prestigious Mehran University of Engineering and Technology celebrated a significant academic milestone with its 29th convocation ceremony, held on Saturday, January 24th. The event took place in the university's Mak Auditorium in Hyderabad, conducted across four separate sittings to accommodate the large number of graduates and their families.
Academic Excellence Recognized with Degrees and Medals
In this momentous convocation, a total of 1007 students received their hard-earned degrees, marking their successful completion of rigorous academic programs. The breakdown of degrees awarded includes 34 Ph.D. degrees, 75 Masters degrees, and an impressive 898 Bachelors degrees across various engineering and technology disciplines.
The ceremony particularly highlighted exceptional academic achievers who earned gold and silver medals for their outstanding performance. Nawal, son of Riyaz Hussain Shaikh from the mathematics department, distinguished himself by winning two gold medals and one silver medal. Similarly, Sonam Devi D/O Mukesh Kumar Lohano from the Institute of Environmental Engineering and Management secured one gold medal, one silver medal, and first position in her field.
Other notable medal winners included Imran Shaikh from the Electronics Department, Uqba Isha son of Shabi Memon from Garments and Manufacturing, and Sultan Salahuddin Khan son of Asimuddin Khan Yousafzai from the chemical engineering department, each earning one gold and one silver medal. Additionally, 18 other male and female students from various disciplines achieved first positions in their respective fields and were honored with silver medals.
Leadership Perspectives on Higher Education Development
Addressing the convocation gathering, Professor Dr. Taha Hussain Ali, Vice Chancellor of Mehran University, described the day as "historic for more than a thousand families in Sindh." He emphasized that each graduate represents potential development for their homes, communities, and the nation. "These youth are the Shaheen of Iqbal and ambassadors of our country," he stated proudly, noting the university's achievement of producing 34 Ph.D. graduates in this convocation alone.
Muhammad Ismail Rahu, Provincial Minister of Universities and Boards Department of Sindh, addressed both the convocation attendees and media representatives, declaring this "a historic day in the history of Sindh and the country." He highlighted Sindh province's leading role in higher education investment, stating that it spends more on this sector than any other province in Pakistan.
The minister outlined the vision of Pakistan People's Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, which aims to establish a university or university campus in every district of Sindh. He contrasted this with previous administrations, noting that "during the Tehreek-e-Insaf period, the higher education budget was cut down and universities were in crisis." Rahu assured that public universities in Sindh would no longer face budgetary constraints and that legal frameworks were being strengthened where necessary.
Broader Educational Vision and Social Responsibility
Vice Chancellor Dr. Taha Hussain Ali elaborated on the university's educational philosophy, stating, "We do not train students only to get employment, but we teach them to become responsible individuals of society—we educate future leaders." He described the convocation as a celebration for students, parents, and teachers alike, while outlining his vision for Mehran University aligned with sustainable development goals, complete digitization, and global alumni connectivity by 2030.
Muhammad Abbas Baloch, Secretary of the Department of Universities and Boards, acknowledged the collective effort behind the graduates' success. "This day results from the hard work of teachers and the investment made by parents," he remarked, congratulating all degree recipients. He emphasized that "these engineers will play a central role in the country's economic development" and urged graduates to contribute to national progress rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
Baloch specifically mentioned the social responsibility of educated individuals, pointing to institutions like the SOS Village in Jamshoro that need support from graduates. "A degree should not only be useful for personal happiness but also for the development of your surroundings," he advised the new graduates.
Ceremonial Proceedings and Additional Events
The convocation was structured across four sessions, each presided over by distinguished guests:
- The first session was chaired by Muhammad Abbas Baloch, Secretary of Universities and Boards Department
- The second session featured Provincial Minister Muhammad Ismail Rahu as chief guest
- The third session welcomed Noor Ahmad Simon from the Training, Management and Research Wing
- The fourth session included Professor Dr. Mujeebuddin Sehrai, Vice Chancellor of Sindh Madrasah Al Salam University, Karachi
Professor Dr. Nasrullah Pirzadi, Registrar of Mehran University, formally announced the commencement of the convocation ceremonies. Alongside the academic proceedings, the university organized a comprehensive job fair that attracted more than 40 companies. Numerous graduates submitted CVs and applications, with several conducting on-the-spot job interviews during the event.
A particularly heartwarming moment occurred when Mubaranaz, a student from the computer system engineering department, received her degree. Her entire educational expenses had been covered by the Mehran University Teachers Association, demonstrating institutional support for deserving students.
The 29th convocation of Mehran University thus served not only as an academic recognition ceremony but also as a platform for discussing broader educational policies, celebrating student achievements, and facilitating career opportunities for the new graduates entering professional life.
