By our correspondent
KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah praised the role of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) in making education accessible to all while addressing the 2025 convocation of the university’s Sindh chapter at Bahria Auditorium, Karsaz, Karachi, on 4 January 2026.
Speaking as the chief guest, Shah reaffirmed his government’s commitment to education, calling it the cornerstone of a balanced society and a strong state. Addressing a large gathering of graduates, faculty, and parents, he said the convocation was not merely a ceremony for awarding degrees but a celebration of perseverance, hard work, and hope.
The Chief Minister paid tribute to Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) founder Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for envisioning an institution that overcame barriers of time, distance, and circumstances. He described AIOU as a symbol of this vision, a beacon of knowledge that reaches the common citizen and transforms society, now providing guidance to millions of students across Pakistan.
Shah also recalled a historic moment, noting that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto enrolled in a short-term course at AIOU during her first tenure as Prime Minister, highlighting that true leadership lies in a continuous pursuit of learning.
Congratulating the graduates, he said their degrees were “receipts of success” reflecting their inner strength and sacrifices. He urged students to view their education not just as a personal asset but as a responsibility to promote social justice, tolerance, and human dignity. “You must use your knowledge to advance society intellectually and morally,” he said.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the Sindh government treats education not as an administrative task but as a guarantee of the nation’s future. He also recognised the quiet sacrifices of parents, often foregoing their own needs to support their children’s education, and praised AIOU’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr Nasser Mahmood, and faculty for keeping the light of knowledge alive despite numerous challenges.
Shah added that his government is taking serious measures to expand distance education and lifelong learning opportunities. The convocation concluded with the distribution of gold medals and degrees to successful students from across the province.
