RAWALPINDI: Rawalpindi Medical University (RMU) on Thursday observed Thanksgiving Day to commemorate Pakistan’s “resilience and victory” in the latest Pakistan-India military standoff.

The event was arranged to pay tribute to the sacrifices of the people and the armed forces, while reaffirming the importance of unity, peace and national integrity, a statement issued here said.

Different activities were held at the university campus. The event was attended by a large number of students, faculty members and administrative staff, all of whom participated with great enthusiasm and reverence. It served as an inspiration for the younger generation to strive for excellence and stand by their country in times of need.

A specially produced documentary was screened for students and faculty members, detailing the sequence of events that led to the conflict. The film highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to maintain peace, its restraint in the face of aggression, and the nation’s collective strength in defending its sovereignty.

The documentary served not only as a historical recount but also as a reminder of the cost of war and the value of peace.

Speaking on the occasion, RMU Vice Chancellor Professor Muhammad Umer emphasised the need for national unity, moral strength, and academic excellence. He urged the students and faculty to stand together as one nation under the guidance of the Holy Quran. “Our strength lies not only in arms but in knowledge, compassion, and unwavering faith. It is our duty as future doctors and researchers to build a strong, self-reliant Pakistan that contributes to global peace and wellbeing,” he said.

Dr Umer further praised the Armed Forces of Pakistan, acknowledging their courage and selflessness in defending the nation.

He encouraged the youth to remain steadfast in their support for the country and to contribute meaningfully to its progress, particularly in the fields of health and research.

A special prayer session was held to conclude the event. Participants prayed for peace and harmony across the world, the safety and prosperity of Pakistan, and the eternal honour of the martyrs who laid down their lives for the country.

Meanwhile, a powerful display of unity and solidarity was witnessed in Hassanabdal on Wednesday as the minority communities took out a rally to express solidarity with the Pakistan Armed Forces. Members of the Christian, Sikh and Hindu communities along with people from various walks of life, participated in the rally.

The participants fervently chanted patriotic slogans in support of the armed forces. Participants also offered prayers for the strength, stability and prosperity of Pakistan.

Speakers affirmed their commitment to stand with the nation during critical times. During the rally, they denounced “cowardly” Indian missile attacks and expressed solidarity with Pakistan’s armed forces, which, they said, were fully capable of defending the motherland and giving a befitting response to the enemy’s aggression. The participants marched on the main roads of the city. The speakers said people stood with their government and armed forces and were ready to render any possible sacrifice for the defence of their motherland.

Published in Dawn, May 15th, 2025