LAHORE: Governor Rafique Rajwana asked students to think critically and be intellectually responsive.

Speaking at the seventh convocation of University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS) here on Monday, the governor said veterinary and animal science graduates should contribute to nation building and development.

Lauding the varsity for being among the top 10 universities in the country, he said the UVAS had a key role in helping the country become self-sufficient in the food sector.

He asked the university to enhance its role as a major support institution for development of local innovation in livestock and allied sectors and provide a skilled human resource.

He stressed the need for being prepared to respond to animal disease incursion in a timely and cost-effective way and have updated policies and response structures in place to achieve this.

“The work of this university is much appreciated for it is building academic partnership with the government, industry and other public and private stakeholders for promotion of education, research, public services and national development,” he said.

He also said development of livestock was a priority for the government.

UVAS Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Talat Naseer Pasha also spoke on the occasion.

Degrees were awarded to 757 graduates, including 246 MPhil and 22 PhD. The governor presented medals to 38 position-holders.

Published in Dawn, November 24th, 2015