LAHORE: Acting President Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani stated on Sunday that Pakistan is playing a responsible and proactive role in promoting peace, reconciliation, and dialogue at both regional and international levels. He made these remarks while addressing the Old Ravians Association's annual dinner held at a local hotel.
Adapting to Global Changes
Gilani emphasized, "The world is changing rapidly, and we must adapt ourselves to new global requirements." He noted that Pakistan's mediation efforts for regional stability, particularly its diplomatic initiatives to reduce tensions and build mutual trust between Iran and the United States, are being acknowledged by the international community. He added that factors such as artificial intelligence, climate change, the digital economy, and globalization have brought new opportunities and challenges for the youth, for whom modern education and practical guidance are indispensable.
GCU: A Monument to Excellence
The Acting President remarked, "Government College University Lahore is not merely an educational institution, but a living monument to excellence." Quoting a famous Persian saying, "Har cheh az darya ba darya rasad" (what flows from the river returns to the river), Gilani said, "Tonight, I feel I have come back to my river, to the corridors that once echoed with our laughter, to the lawns where we dreamed of changing the world, and to this great institution that shaped not just our careers, but our very souls."
An Old Ravian's Pride
He emphasized that he was present not as the Chairman Senate or a former prime minister, but simply as an Old Ravian. "Let me admit, no title has ever made me prouder," he said. "Seeing you all tonight is like opening a cherished album; every face tells a story, every smile recalls a memory." Recalling his student days, he spoke fondly of hostel life, shared cups of tea, and lively discussions at the legendary Pak Tea House in old Anarkali. He mentioned night-long debates on politics, sports, movies, music, culture, and international affairs, as well as card games, light banter, and long walks that made those days unforgettable.
Gilani added, "I am particularly delighted to see my old hostel mates, including our General Secretary Shahbaz Ahmed Sheikh. Shahbaz, we have come a long way from our days of combined studies and career planning, haven't we? Today, we celebrate a bond that has never broken—that is the magic of Ravian brotherhood."
Legacy of Leadership
Gilani noted that for over a century and a half, GCU has produced leaders, thinkers, poets, and statesmen without ever losing its essence. He highlighted that several national leaders studied at the institution, including Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, former prime minister Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, Zafarullah Khan Jamali, Moeenuddin Ahmad Qureshi, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, and himself. "The most remarkable thing is that GCU never tried to mould us into a single shape. It taught us how to fly, but never dictated where to go. That is the finest gift an institution can give—the gift of independent thought," he said.
Education as Lighting a Fire
He stressed that education is not about filling a bucket but lighting a fire. "GCU lit that fire in each of us. It taught us to question, to reason, and to respect differing opinions. In an increasingly divided world, these values of tolerance and diversity are more precious than gold." Reflecting on present challenges, Gilani noted that rapid changes such as artificial intelligence, climate challenges, and evolving economies demand adaptability. He said, "Government College Lahore not only instilled stability in its students, but also nurtured maturity and patience."
Regional Peace and Restraint
Gilani remarked, "It has been one year since the Pulwama incident. Following that incident, India launched an unprovoked attack on Pakistan in May, to which Pakistan, as a responsible nuclear state, showed restraint." He stated, "Our narrative is understood and accepted by the international community. We invited the world to conduct an independent investigation, and India's stance was rejected globally. Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state and has acted responsibly."
Call for Mentorship
He further stated that at an event at Punjab University, he was told he was the only graduate of that university to become Prime Minister. He also referred to his book, 'Aarhi Hai Chah Yousaf Se Sada', which he wrote while in prison. Gilani urged the Old Ravians Association to establish a mentorship network to guide younger graduates toward meaningful careers and to ensure that GCU continues to thrive as a center of excellence. "I assure you, I will stand with you in every effort to give back to the institution that gave us so much," he said.
Friendship and Legacy
Sharing an anecdote from Brazilian author Paulo Coelho, Gilani described a story of friendship in which one friend kept a fire burning on a distant mountain to give warmth and hope to another enduring a cold night. "That is what this association represents—a fire kept alive across years and distances. When life grows cold, we can look toward one another for warmth and strength. That fire of friendship never dies," he said. He concluded by urging participants to carry forward that spirit. "Let us be there for each other with our prayers and support. That is the true legacy of Government College University—not just the degrees we hold, but the warmth we share."
Gilani thanked the Old Ravians Association for organizing the gathering and expressed hope that their bonds would continue to grow stronger. Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal, and Federal Minister for Water Resources Mian Muhammad Mueen Wattoo also addressed the event. Earlier, Old Ravian Association General Secretary Shahbaz Ahmed Sheikh welcomed the participants, while Vice President Shireen Asad conveyed a message from Ishaq Dar. Senior Vice President Sarfraz Ahmed presented the vote of thanks at the conclusion of the ceremony.
