KARACHI: The Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET) has awarded degrees to more than 1,095 graduates from BS and MS programmes at its 29th convocation.

Students who secured top positions in their respective disciplines were honoured with gold, silver and bronze medals. Laptops and cash prizes of Rs50,000 were also awarded to position holders by The Zakir Ali Khan Foundation in recognition of their academic excellence.

The convocation was attended by educationists, scholars, faculty members, students and parents. Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori was the chief guest on the occasion.

Addressing the graduates, Governor Tessori said that the true purpose of education is to lead individuals toward truth and integrity rather than making them part of a corrupt system. Highlighting the importance of modern learning, he said the era of artificial intelligence demands that Pakistan embrace technology to ensure progress and development. He expressed concern that despite contributing nearly 65 per cent of the country’s revenue, Karachi continues to face a shortage of basic facilities.

Referring to Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, the governor described him as a visionary who believed that education and skills were essential for progress. He noted the historic role of Aligarh University students in the Pakistan Movement. He further informed the audience that under the Governor Initiative programme, around 50,000 children are currently receiving free IT education, adding that students of Sir Syed University would also be included in these programmes.

SSUET Chancellor Muhammad Akbar Ali Khan congratulated the graduates and said that in today’s global economy, knowledge has replaced physical capital as the primary source of wealth, underscoring the need for technology-driven education for national competitiveness and social development.

Minister for Boards and Universities Ismail Raho stated that Sir Syed University is playing an important role in producing skilled and competent youth, which would contribute to strengthening the country’s defence and development.

Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Afzal Haq presented the university’s progress report, stating that SSUET awarded 1,032 bachelor’s degrees and 63 master’s degrees, including six PhDs.

He highlighted the expansion to 34 academic programmes and a student body of over 8,000, supported by a committed faculty. He added that seven new technologies were introduced during the year and that the university continues to maintain a strong research culture. Financial assistance exceeding Rs50 million has been provided to 1,500 deserving students through scholarships.

He also noted that approximately 2,500 students were enrolled during the current admission cycle, reflecting the growing demand for quality education. Registrar Syed Sarfraz Ali also addressed the ceremony.

Published in Dawn, January 31st, 2026