Lahore, May 17, 2026: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Sunday said that Pakistan’s youth are the country’s “bright future” and stressed that education driven by research, innovation and modern technology is essential for sustainable national development.
Addressing the graduation ceremony at University of Lahore as chief guest, Gilani said the Senate of Pakistan remained committed to promoting education, innovation, skill development and creating dignified opportunities for young people.
The ceremony was attended by university deans, directors, faculty members, students and a large number of distinguished guests.
Congratulating the graduating students and award recipients, the Senate chairman said the occasion marked not only the achievement of degrees and medals but also the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice and perseverance.
“Behind every successful student stands a family that firmly believed education could transform lives,” he said, adding that the achievement belonged equally to students, parents and teachers.
Gilani paid tribute to faculty members for their dedication and role in shaping future generations, while praising the University of Lahore for establishing itself among Pakistan’s leading higher education institutions.
He noted that through partnerships with international institutions, the university had introduced world-class education and created new opportunities for Pakistani youth, particularly in future-oriented disciplines.
Highlighting rapid global technological transformation, Gilani said emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, robotics and quantum computing were reshaping economies, healthcare systems and industries worldwide.
“In this new era, nations will progress not merely through natural resources or infrastructure, but through knowledge, innovation and human intellect,” he remarked.
The Senate chairman emphasized that universities must evolve into centers of excellence and technology incubators capable of meeting international standards, while also equipping students with critical thinking, adaptability and lifelong learning skills.
He said Pakistan possessed immense talent and potential, adding that the country’s youth required opportunities, confidence and quality education to compete globally.
Addressing graduates directly, Gilani urged them to uphold integrity, humility, compassion and respect in their professional and personal lives.
“Your generation represents the hopes and aspirations of Pakistan,” he added.
Expressing satisfaction over Pakistani graduates securing international employment opportunities, particularly in healthcare and nursing sectors in countries such as Austria, Gilani described it as proof that Pakistani youth could compete successfully at the global level when provided proper education and guidance.
Recalling his tenure as prime minister, Gilani said his government focused on expanding higher education, increasing scholarships, strengthening regional institutions and introducing policies aimed at building a modern knowledge-based economy.
He referred to the 2009 National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, which sought to place universities at the center of socio-economic development through enhanced funding, university-industry linkages and the establishment of technology parks.
Gilani also highlighted initiatives such as entrepreneurship programs, internship schemes and increased funding for universities in underdeveloped areas to create opportunities for youth.
Referring to his role as chairperson of COMSATS, he said efforts were made to expand and strengthen the institution’s infrastructure and transform it into a multi-campus university system.
“At every stage, our belief remained firm that Pakistan’s greatest asset is an educated, skilled and determined young generation,” he said.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Gilani distributed medals and certificates among high-achieving students, while Rector of the University of Lahore, Professor Dr. Muhammad Ashraf, presented a souvenir to the chief guest.
