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Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai urged all the graduates and students of the Lahore University of Management and Sciences (Lums) to remember three things in life: be hopeful, take action and go ahead with values.
She said this while addressing the first-ever virtual convocation ceremony of Lums on the varsity’s Facebook page.
The young activist told the graduates that they were graduating at a time when uncertainty could not be more certain and a global pandemic and economic recession had shaken the health, education, political and economic system. “We must remember that the pandemic has affected all of us, but it did not affect us equally: many of us have lost our loved ones and most have lost jobs. But many poets and thinkers will tell you that the darkest moments are followed by the brightest,” she said during her address.
“Our world may never be the same after this crisis, but I hope it will be better. So go with the hope that you can make this world a better place for everyone.”
The university’s leadership including LUMS Rector Shahid Hussain, Founding Pro Chancellor Syed Babar Ali, Pro Chancellor Abdur Razzaq Dawood and Vice Chancellor Dr Arshad Ahmad shared congratulatory messages with the 1,092 graduating students. Parents of the graduates, LUMS faculty and staff also attended the virtual ceremony.
To the graduates, she said, “Speak out against gender bias and harmful social norms. At home, in a classroom and in a wider society, social norms influence girls’ and boys’ perceptions of their lives and their futures.… Social norms can change—and you can help them change by raising your voice for girls’ education in communities across the country.” Shahid Hussain, Rector, LUMS, advised the graduates to find creative solutions to problems and expressed his admiration for the students. “I am inspired and proud of how you have all risen to the challenge and displayed exceptional maturity, resilience and determination.” He also announced the winners of the prestigious National Management Foundation awards. Pro-Chancellor Abdur Razzaq Dawood referred to the graduates as the next generation of leaders. “As the whole world recovers from the effects of COVID-19, they will look to you to give us purpose, hope and a path forward.” Founding Pro Chancellor Syed Babar Ali shared how the graduates can prepare for the path ahead. “You are now entering the real world. The degree or the certificate that you will get from here is only the entry pass to your next career or your next occupation. After that, you will be judged on how much industry and hard work you put into your effort. As was stressed on you throughout your stay at LUMS, that above all, you will be judged by your truthfulness, by your integrity, and your humility as to how you conduct yourself.” At the virtual Convocation, LUMS Alumni also shared profound memories of their time spent at the alma mater, and the far-reaching impact it had on their lives.
