Islamabad: The Lahore University of Management Sciences held four convocation ceremonies over two days to celebrate the LUMS Class of 2026, awarding degrees to more than 1,500 graduates from its five schools.
Students from the university’s business, humanities and social sciences, law, science and engineering, and education schools received their degrees in the presence of families, faculty members and senior university officials.
The ceremonies marked the completion of the graduates’ academic programmes and formally welcomed them into the global LUMS alumni community.
Among those attending were Pro-Chancellor Abdul Razak Dawood, Rector Shahid Hussain, Vice Chancellor Dr Ali Cheema, members of the Board of Trustees, deans and faculty members.
Vice Chancellor Urges Graduates to Expand Opportunities
Congratulating the graduating class, Vice Chancellor Dr Ali Cheema said institutions were ultimately judged by the people they prepared to serve society.
Referring to the university’s 40th anniversary, he said the purpose of higher education extended beyond awarding degrees and included helping individuals realise their potential.
Dr Cheema encouraged graduates to use their education to support others and create opportunities for future generations.
Valedictorians Recognised for Academic Achievement
The convocation ceremonies also recognised students for academic excellence and leadership.
The Class of 2026 valedictorians were Ali Abbas Gilani from the BA-LLB (Hons) programme, Ahmad Ashraf from BS Computer Science, Hiba Humayun from BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance, and Maheen Mashhood from BA (Hons) History.
In their addresses, the valedictorians reflected on their academic journeys, personal development, resilience and friendships at the university. They also thanked their families, teachers, mentors and classmates for supporting them throughout their studies.
Speakers Highlight Empathy, Creativity and Lifelong Learning
Four speakers from education, social development, art and technology addressed the graduating students during the ceremonies.
Neha Mankani, founder of the Mama Baby Fund and a member of the LUMS Class of 2008, encouraged graduates to remain curious, practise empathy and use their education to address social challenges.
Zia Akhter Abbas, president and chief executive officer of The Citizens Foundation and an MBA graduate from 1997, urged students to remain humble, respect diverse perspectives and face uncertainty with courage and responsibility.
Artist, curator and contemporary art historian Salima Hashmi spoke about the importance of creativity, compassion, open dialogue and respect for different voices in building a better future.
Entrepreneur, artificial intelligence technologist and author Amir Husain encouraged graduates to continue learning, remain adaptable and approach a rapidly changing world with resilience and optimism.
The two-day convocation celebration concluded with graduates preparing to begin their professional and academic journeys as members of the LUMS alumni network.
Also Read: Pakistan Single Window and LUMS Partner to Boost Trade Facilitation Research and Capacity Building
Today's E-Paper