Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Tuesday stated that Pakistan urgently requires quality graduates capable of solving problems, creating employment opportunities, and accelerating the country's development. He also congratulated the nation's civil and military leadership for their role in promoting peace between the United States and Iran.
Address at GIKI Convocation
Gilani expressed these views while addressing the annual convocation of the Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute (GIKI) in Topi, Swabi, as the chief guest. He noted that it was a great honor to attend the event on behalf of President Asif Ali Zardari. Congratulating the graduating students, he attributed their success to dedication and hard work, and also extended congratulations to their parents and teachers for their support.
GIKI's Role in Higher Education
Gilani highlighted that GIKI has played a significant role in promoting quality higher education in Pakistan, ranking among the country's leading institutions in computing, engineering, science, technology, and management. He emphasized that GIKI contributes to the knowledge economy, noting that countries prioritizing knowledge and science & technology continue to progress, while those lagging behind in modern educational and technological demands are left behind.
Need for Innovation and Development
He stressed the need to focus on production rather than dependence, encourage innovation, and prioritize development. Gilani asserted that institutions like GIKI have a crucial role in achieving these goals. He urged that universities should be evaluated not by the number of graduates they produce, but by the quality of their research and their ability to meet modern world demands.
Youth Demographic Advantage
Gilani pointed out that Pakistan has one of the world's largest youth populations, with more than 60 percent of its population being young people. He emphasized that this demographic advantage can only be harnessed by equipping young people with knowledge and skills. He stressed the need for more engineers, scientists, and researchers, reiterating that Pakistan requires graduates who can solve problems, generate employment, and contribute to national progress on a fast track basis.
Commitment to Education
Gilani said he has always been committed to promoting higher education, a vision shared by former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto Shaheed. He noted that education was one of his top priorities during his tenure as Prime Minister, with investments made in the education sector. As Chairman of the Senate, he remains committed to advancing education, science, technology, and research.
Proposal for Larger Venue
Observing that the institute's current convocation hall is too small, Gilani suggested that the next convocation be held at the Islamabad Convention Hall.
Praise for US-Iran Peace Efforts
Gilani congratulated Pakistan's civil and military leadership for their excellent role in facilitating peace between the United States and Iran, expressing hope and prayers for the success of the peace process. He called it a major achievement that should benefit the entire world.
