KARACHI: Over 250 students were awarded degrees at the 6th convocation of the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology (FUUAST) held on Thursday at the PAF Museum.

The disciplines in which the degrees were awarded included business administration, commerce and economics, law, education, Islamic studies and pharmacy.

The graduates included 47 gold medalists, 24 silver medalists and 16 bronze medalists. Two students were recognised for their outstanding performance in co-curricular activities with special certificates.

Congratulating students on their success, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, who was the chief guest of the event, underscored the need for getting equipped with emerging technologies to stay connected with the rapidly changing world and compete in the global market.

Governor Kamran Tessori asks varsity to improve academic standards to stop declining enrolment

“Today, it’s important more than ever that students acquire expertise in contemporary knowledge and technology. This would help them in establishing themselves professionally as well as guide them in playing an effective role in country’s development,” he said.

He announced that various technology-related courses would soon be offered at the Governor House for Urdu university’s 2,000 students. The step aimed at training students in modern IT skills so they could avail better opportunities in practical life, the governor said.

Guest of Honour Syed Amin-ul-Haque, chairman of the Stan­­d­ing Committee on Info­rmation Technology and Telec­om­mun­ication, said that special funds had been provided to Urdu university over the last two years and the government grant had been increased by 15 per cent.

However, he expressed concern over the decline in student enrollment at the Urdu university, given the fact that “student enrollment is increasing at the Karachi University and the NED University”.

“This is a serious issue. The university administration must improve its academic standards and facilities to address this challenge,” he said, announcing that the university’s convocation would now be held regularly every year to encourage students and promote academic traditions.

In his remarks, FUUAST Vice Chancellor Prof Zabta Kh­an Shinwari highlighted the university’s progress in recent years.

“The university’s faculty and staff have been working tirelessly despite facing severe hardships as they haven’t received their salaries for the past three months,” he shared, while describing the Urdu university as a national asset.

“After Islam, the Urdu language is the greatest unifying force for the Pakistani nation,” he remarked.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, which was also attended by MNA Sabin Ghauri and FUUAST senate members Saee­d­ullah and Shakeel Rehman, the dignitaries awarded degrees and medals among students who demonstrated outstanding academic performance.

Published in Dawn, January 16th, 2026