KARACHI: As many as 1,184 graduates were conferred degrees in several disciplines at the annual convocation for the Class of 2023 at the Institute of Business Administration (IBA), Karachi Saturday.

The batch included 776 graduates from six undergraduate programmes, 403 graduates from 10 postgraduate programmes and five graduates from three PhD programmes.

The event was held on the main campus of the IBA. Caretaker Chief Minister and IBA patron retired Justice Maqbool Baqar was the chief guests. Dr Azra Raza, Chan Soon-Shiong Professor of Medicine and Clinical Director, Edward P. Evans Foundation MDS Center, Columbia University in New York was the guest of honour.

Speaking on the occasion, the CM said that the convocation symbolised the culmination of years of relentless dedication and unwavering commitment. It signified the transformative power of education, the beacon that has illuminated the path of students’ future, he added.

Interim CM praises IBA for providing comprehensive educational experience; Akbar Zaidi says 40pc of graduates are young women

He said for over seven decades, IBA Karachi had been at the forefront of higher education. It all began in 1955 when the institute proudly collaborated with the renowned Wharton School of Finance at the University of Pennsylvania. “Fast forward to today, IBA stands as a premier multidisciplinary institution, offering a spectrum of educational programmes and the three distinguished schools — School of Business Studies (SBS), School of Economics and Social Sciences (SESS) and School of Mathematics and Computer Science (SMCS) — provide a comprehensive educational experience.”

Addressing the students, the CM said: “As graduates of IBA, you are the future leaders of our nation. Your actions, decisions, and ideals will influence the course of our nation. Your patriotism, hence, should be deeply rooted in your pursuit of justice, equality, and progress.”

He congratulated Class of 2023 and wished them to embark on a remarkable journey towards a brighter and prosperous Pakistan.

Dr Raza congratulated the graduates and said, “You are now entering a world where things are uncertain and unpredictable. But having said that the future is open to possibilities and as young, competent, empowered individuals, it is your duty to fight all the challenges for a fabulous future.”

Speaking about the immense capabilities of a human brain, Dr Raza quoted renowned American poet Emily Dickinson and likened the human brain to a sponge ready to soak up knowledge. She urged the graduates to be consistent in the pursuit of their conquests and encouraged them to never give up on their dreams, even if it meant making sacrifices to reach their potential.

IBA’s Executive Director Dr S Akbar Zaidi congratulated the graduates and said, “I applaud each one of you for reaching this significant milestone in your educational journey as your hard work has come to fruition. Graduation is a time of celebration and reflection and signifies the beginning of a new chapter in your lives. I encourage you all to excel in your selected walks of life and continue the legacy of excellence that is the hallmark of IBA.

“I am delighted to share that almost 40 per cent of our graduates are young women and this year almost half the PhD graduates are females, which is a proud moment for the IBA takes,” he added.

He also highlighted IBA’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity by enrolling students from all socioeconomic backgrounds with currently 30pc of the IBA students receiving some form of financial assistance.

Published in Dawn, December 3rd, 2023