CPEC project potential: universities should also contribute towards agenda: President

President Mamnoon Hussain on Monday said education is vital for human resource development and urged the universities to equip the new generation with knowledge to effectively address the challenges of contemporary world. Addressing the 39th convocation of National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences (NUCMS) here at the university campus, the President said, with growth of education and economic sectors, the country can achieve the goals of prosperity.
President Mamnoon said Pakistan had embarked upon the journey to prosperity with launch of several mega projects including China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that comprises network of motorways, Gwadar airport, and other projects of gas and electricity. He urged the students to prepare themselves in advance to maximum benefit from the potential of CPEC project and added that universities should also contribute for this national agenda.
He said corruption had negatively impacted the society and the education sector also faced a decline due to this menace. The President emphasised on the social boycott of people involved in corrupt practices. He said the present government had inherited a debt of Rs 14,800 billion in 2013, whereas the previous government took loans worth 8,000 billion rupees in five years but executed no mega projects such as dams or universities.
The President felicitated the graduating students on completion of their courses and called upon them to utilise their knowledge and educational experience in the best interest of the country. He said the students' hard work and determination leads to success in educational career; however he advised the students to always express gratitude towards their teachers and parents for their selfless support. The President called upon the girl students to achieve higher education and become a proud identity of their country. He also gave away degrees and medals to the distinguished students who achieved top positions in their disciplines.