LAHORE: Punjab University’s Institute of Education and Research (IER) held its 2nd Convocation at Faisal Auditorium.
Vice Chancellor PU Dr Niaz Ahmad was the chief guest on occasion whereas Dean Faculty of Education Prof Dr Abid Hussain Chaudhry, IER Director Prof Dr Rifaqat Ali Akbar, convocation’s focal person Dr Asim Nazir, faculty members a large number of PhD, M Phil, Master’s and BS students participated in the ceremony. 21 medals were distributed among the distinguished students while 2 PhD, 504 Masters/BS and 97 M Phil degrees were awarded to the students.
While addressing on occasion, Vice Chancellor Prof Niaz Ahmad urged the graduates and teachers to create high moral values in their students and produce civilized citizens equipped with relevant skills. Prof Niaz Ahmad said that it was the prime responsibility of the universities to help resolve the problems being faced by the country and society. He said that since most of the graduating students would be joining the teaching profession, they must focus on becoming role models and train the new generation according to the needs of society.
He advised the students to keep their knowledge up-to-date and deliver the curriculum in an excellent manner. He urged the graduates to measure up the expectations of their students and work with honesty. He said that the teachers and students of IER must play their role in resolving the issues being faced by the country in the field of education. He said that PU was playing its role to resolve social issues and bringing a good name to the country.
He said that PU had improved its international ranking by 16 percent in just 3 years. He said that in 2018, PU’s position in the Asian ranking was 232nd and in just three years, it has now been declared 145th best university in Asia by the QS. He said that 13 faculties of Punjab University had been ranked internationally for the first time. He said that PU ranking would improve further in the upcoming years with joint efforts of administration, teachers and students.
Addressing the convocation, Dr Rifaqat Ali Akbar said that for the first time since 1960, IER had launched a Post-Doctorate research fellowship program. He said that despite COVID 19, IER had organized international and national conferences. He said that IER faculty had sent proposals to the government for the introduction and implementation of single national curriculum and education policy 2021. He said that IER was now regularly publishing research journals and alumni magazines.
He said that 150 new titles had also been added to the library of the institute. He said that for the first time in IER history, 12 flats had been built for IER employees and foundation stone had been laid for the construction of 8 houses for IER faculty members. He urged the students to become good ambassadors of the institute. He congratulated the students and their parents on their achievements.
