KARACHI: Over 500 students received their degrees at the sixth convocation of Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) held on Saturday.

Speaking at the ceremony held at a local hotel, JSMU Vice Chancellor Prof Amjad Siraj Memon celebrated the university’s achievements, announcing the graduation of the first DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy) batch and the start of PhD programmes.

He highlighted the induction of 100 plus clinical faculty at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre and the inauguration of the first vascular surgery unit by health minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho.

He also spoke about operationalizing the Valika and Landhi campuses, the fee waivers for Palestinian students and the admission of 25 more students, urging graduates to uphold honesty and dedication in their professions.

Later, the graduates were honoured for their extraordinary achievements. Dr Muhammad Aizaz-ur-Rehman (MBBS) and Dr Ameera Omar (BDS) earned best graduate titles, with Dr Ameera receiving three medals.

Other best graduates included Dr Areeba Khan (Pharm D), Huraira Ahmed (BSN), Dr Hira Naveed (DPT), Ms Adeeba Shah (BBA-HCM), Fabiha Afzal (BBA), Ms Neha (BSPH) and Dr Kiran Fatima (MSPH).

Top position holders across programmes received gold, silver, and bronze medals. A total of 19 gold, seven silver, and five bronze medals were awarded, highlighting the academic excellence of the graduates.

Prof Amna Rehana and Prof Muhammad Azhar Mughal were awarded the Best Teacher Award. Associate Professors Dr Shaheen Parveen and Dr Shehla Imam were recognized as the Best Teachers.

In the Assistant Professor category, Dr Ihsan Ahmed and Dr Bushra Hana were honoured as the best. Lecturers Dr Anum Perwa and Dr Saima Ibad received the Best Teacher Award.

Registrar Dr Azam Khan conducted the oath-taking ceremony, instilling in graduates the commitment to uphold professional ethics and serve humanity.

Prof Huma Ali, chairperson of the convocation committee, delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the efforts of faculty, staff, and organisers for making the convocation a memorable event.

The convocation concluded with a documentary and slideshow celebrating the journey and achievements of the graduates, leaving attendees inspired and hopeful for the future.

Published in Dawn, January 19th, 2025