Gilani says knowledge, innovation and human intellect key to nations’ progress

LAHORE, May 16 (APP): Chairman Senate Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Saturday said that in the modern era, nations would progress not only through natural resources or physical infrastructure but through knowledge, innovation and human intellect.

Addressing the Graduation and High Achievers Ceremony at the University of Lahore as chief guest, he said the world was changing at an extraordinary pace due to emerging technologies including Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, blockchain, quantum computing and robotics, which were transforming economies, healthcare systems, industries and the nature of work.

Congratulating the graduating students and award recipients, Gilani said the occasion was not merely about degrees and medals but the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, patience and hope. He said behind every successful student stood families and teachers whose support and guidance played a vital role in shaping their future.

He praised the University of Lahore for earning a prominent place among Pakistan’s leading higher education institutions and appreciated its Department of International Qualifications for promoting globally recognised education through partnerships with international institutions.

The Senate chairman said educational institutions must act as centres of excellence and technology incubators in line with national and international standards. He stressed the need to equip students not only with professional qualifications but also with critical thinking abilities, adaptability and lifelong learning skills.

Addressing the graduates, he urged them not to remain spectators in the ongoing technological transformation, saying Pakistan possessed immense talent and potential. He said the youth needed opportunities, confidence and determination to continue learning and adapting to new ideas.

Gilani said education was not only a path to personal success but also a responsibility, urging graduates to uphold integrity, compassion, humility and respect for others. He termed the youth Pakistan’s greatest strength and investment for the future.

He expressed satisfaction that graduates, particularly in nursing and healthcare, were securing international opportunities in countries such as Austria, calling it a matter of pride for both the institution and Pakistan.

Recalling his tenure as prime minister, Gilani said his government had focused on promoting regional institutional development, faculty scholarships and policies aimed at building a modern knowledge-based economy. He highlighted the introduction of the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy in 2009, which aimed to strengthen academia-industry linkages and establish technology parks on university campuses.

He also mentioned initiatives including the Prime Minister’s Entrepreneurial Challenge Programme, internship schemes and enhanced funding for universities, especially in underdeveloped areas, to create opportunities for young Pakistanis.

Gilani said that as Chairman Senate, he remained committed to supporting education, innovation, skills development and opportunities that would empower the youth with confidence and dignity.

He concluded by congratulating the graduates, high achievers, parents, teachers and the management of the University of Lahore, and wished them continued success and achievements in the future.

Earlier, he gave away awards, certificates and medals to the graduates and high achievers.

Lahore University Rector Dr Ashraf presented souvenir to the Chief guest.