By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi
DERA ISMAIL KHAN: Government Degree College No 1 Dera Ismail Khan held its first formal convocation in its 105-year history, awarding degrees to 197 graduates from the 2011 batch onwards, including 50 students recognised for outstanding academic performance.
The institution, regarded as one of the oldest educational establishments in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after Islamia College Peshawar, marked the milestone ceremony with a large turnout of graduates, faculty and parents.
Mayor of Dera City Umar Amin Gandapur attended as chief guest. He said students reflected the values of their institutions, teachers and families, and stressed the importance of character-building alongside education. He assured full support for the college and said its administrative demands would be considered.
Principal Professor Syed Abid Shah, in his opening remarks, described the convocation as a significant moment to honour students, parents and teachers. He said those who overcame challenges in practical life were the true achievers and urged graduates to uphold strong moral values and bring pride to their families and region.
He also presented the college’s demands, including construction of a second BS block, provision of solar energy for hostels and reconstruction of internal roads.
The ceremony was attended by Pro Vice Chancellor of Gomal University Professor Dr Naimatullah Babar, Chairman Dera Board Professor Dr Ihsanullah, principals of JMC colleges, parents and a large number of students. Shields and awards were distributed among guests and organisers.
The proceedings began with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Hafiz Ataullah, while the programme was conducted by Professor Syed Muhammad Ali Shah along with students Shahzaib, Zaera Naqvi and Syeda Zuriya Khush Bakht.
