ISLAMABAD: Graduates of a medical college affiliated with Isra University pledged to devote their professional lives to the service of humanity, transcending barriers of faith, race and nationality, during an oath-taking ceremony held on Wednesday as part of the university’s convocation.

The pledge was administered at the degree-awarding ceremony, where newly qualified graduates formally affirmed their commitment to the ethical principles of the medical profession. Standing in academic regalia, they vowed to uphold compassion, integrity and respect for human dignity while caring for patients, regardless of background or belief.

The ceremony was presided over by Isra University Chancellor and President of the Isra Islamic Foundation Prof Dr Hamidullah Kazi. The chief guest was Executive Director of the Higher Education Commission Prof Dr Zia Ul Haq.

Degrees were conferred across 12 disciplines to 289 graduates, including two in Doctor of Medicine (Paediatrics), 112 in Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), 60 in Doctor of Physical Therapy, 19 in BS Medical Laboratory Technology, 58 in BS Vision Sciences, 13 in BS Audiology, three in BS Prosthetics and Orthotics, one in Associate Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology, 11 in Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy, one in BS Electronics, seven in BS Engineering Technology (Civil) and two in BS Engineering Technology (Electrical).

Addressing the convocation, Prof Haq said Pakistan’s population of more than 250 million posed a significant challenge for the public sector alone to ensure universal access to education, adding that private institutions had become indispensable partners in expanding literacy and professional training.

He said Isra University and other private-sector institutions had made notable progress despite limited government support, adding that the Higher Education Commission would work towards developing “facilitative and friendly” policies for private educational institutions to help them expand academic opportunities while maintaining quality standards.

He emphasised that collaboration between the public and private sectors was essential to achieve national education targets and produce skilled graduates for socio-economic development.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Kazi said the university, operating under the Isra Islamic Foundation, remained committed to utilising available resources to provide quality education and professional training. He described education as the cornerstone of strong nations and expressed pride in graduates serving in professional roles around the world.

He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to continuous improvement and pledged ongoing support and guidance for graduates in their professional and personal lives. He also paid tribute to the contributions of foundation members, faculty and administrative staff in achieving academic excellence and enhancing the university’s international recognition.

Earlier, Vice Chancellor Dr Ahmed Waliullah Kazi congratulated the graduates and expressed satisfaction over the completion of another academic cycle at the Islamabad campus. He urged them to uphold dedication and integrity and to bring honour to their alma mater, teachers and the country through their professional conduct.

He said the convocation marked not only the conferment of degrees but also the fulfilment of aspirations for students and their families, noting that the graduates’ achievements reflected sustained hard work, perseverance and the collective support of teachers and parents.

Female graduates outnumbered their male counterparts at the ceremony, underscoring the growing participation of women in medical education.

The ceremony was attended by faculty members, graduates and their families. High-achieving students were awarded gold, silver and bronze medals in recognition of academic excellence, marking what organisers described as a significant milestone for both the university and its graduates.

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