GILGIT: The University of Baltistan, Skardu, on Friday held the fourth convocation, awarding degrees to 73 students, including women.

Commander FCNA Maj-Gen Jawad Ahmed, who was the chief guest, awarded the degrees.

GB education minister Raja Azam Khan, tourism minister Raja Nasir Ali Khan, member GB Assembly and parliamentary secretary health Kulsoom Farman, members of the varsity’s senate, vice-chancellors of partner universities, parents and elders attended the ceremony.

Eleven students received gold, silver and bronze medals.

Speaking on the occasion, vice-chancellor Dr Mohammad Naeem Khan said the university was among a few institutions of higher education in the country that continued teaching, learning and assessment practices through online and hybrid modes.

He also thanked the federal government and the Higher Education Commission for allocating funds for construction of the university building and infrastructure.

Dr Naeem also extended his gratitude to the GB government for providing land for its building.

Gen Ahmed congratulated the graduating students, their parents, and teachers.

He appreciated the efforts of the vice-chancellor and his team for continuing teaching and assessment practices during the Covid-19 pandemic and for conducting four successful convocations in a short span of three years.

The chief guest mentioned that education should bring humbleness, respect, compassion, tolerance and professionalism among the learners. “Education should enable the youth to turn obstacles and challenges into opportunities,” he stressed.

Published in Dawn, August 14th, 2021