LAHORE: Like other segments of the society, the educational institutions of Lahore on Friday celebrated the 73rd Independence Day of the country with zeal and fervor. Flag-hoisting functions were arranged at different public sector as well as private schools, colleges, universities and medical universities to mark the day and show their love for the country.
Punjab Governor Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar along with GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Asghar Zaidi and academic heads hoisted the national flag in in the University's Bukhari Auditorium while the limited number of faculty members, staff and students were in attendance.
Addressing the ceremony, the Punjab governor remembered the brothers and sisters of occupied Kashmir who had been suffering at the hands of the Indian forces for the past many decades. He said "overseas Pakistanis were our true asset as they contribute immensely to the economic development of the country."
He appreciated the work and efforts of the GCU Vice Chancellor for the development of the University, and his active participation in the government's awareness campaign against COVID-19. He said that the government's smart lockdown strategy had yielded excellent results.
GCU Vice Chancellor Prof Asghar Zaidi said Allama Iqbal's philosophy and Quaid-e-Azam's life served as beacons of light for the Muslim youth. He reiterated the commitment that he would leave no stone unturned for development of GCU in the realm of research and education. He called upon the GCU faculty and staff members to carry out their individual as well as collective responsibilities sincerely, honestly and justly.
A special video message of Mushaal Hussein Mullick, wife of incarcerated Kashmiri Hurriyat leader Yasin Malik, was also telecasted on this occasion. The members of GCU Nazir Ahmed Music Society presented national anthem, mili nagmas and Kalam-e-Iqbal
Later, the Punjab Governor inaugurated the newly-built Health and Wellbeing Centre at the GCU besides planting a tree at the Bukhari Lawns. On this occasion special prayers were offered for the peace and prosperity of the country, and rich tributes were paid to frontline corona warriors especially to doctors and paramedics.
While addressing the flag hoisting ceremony Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Niaz Ahmad has said that today's Pakistan is stronger than ever and our country's future will also be brighter than today. He was addressing the flag hoisting ceremony organized at PU's newly constructed Gate No 1.
Flag hoisting ceremonies were also held in University of Engineering and Technology Lahore, Kinnaird College For Women University, Lahore College for Women University, Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education Lahore and Punjab Education Foundation.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2020