The Institute of Business Management (IoBM) celebrated its 28th Convocation on Saturday, awarding degrees to 1,515 graduates in fields ranging from BBA and BS to MBA, MPhil, and PhD. This year’s ceremony held dual significance, marking not only the academic achievements of the graduating class—which included 19 gold medalists and 64 Merit Certificate recipients—but also commemorating IoBM’s 30th anniversary since its founding in September 1995.
Distinguished guests and IoBM leadership addressed the new graduates, offering inspiration and counsel for the journey ahead. Dr Sulaiman Shahabuddin, President of The Aga Khan University and Guest of Honor, expressed his confidence in the graduates as Pakistan’s emerging leaders. He encouraged them to stay optimistic, cultivate a habit of reading, prioritize their health, and embrace lifelong learning.
In his welcome remarks, IoBM Chancellor Mr M Bashir Janmohammad honored the parents of the graduates, acknowledging their sacrifices as the “true chief guests” of the day. He urged the new alumni to lead with honesty and contribute positively to Pakistan’s future, fostering an entrepreneurial spirit as they begin their careers.
IoBM President Talib Syed Karim presented a progress report, highlighting a landmark year in the institute’s history. He announced IoBM’s submission of its AACSB application and its recognition as the first Pakistani member of the Business Graduate Association and the Association of MBAs. Mr. Karim also commended students for their achievements beyond academics, including notable successes in national and international sports and community service initiatives.
Alumnus and keynote speaker Mirza Salman Beg (MBA 1998), CEO of Enterprising Manufacturing Co. Pvt. Ltd., advised graduates to pursue continuous improvement rather than perfection, develop clear life direction, and avoid defining themselves solely by professional titles.
Valedictorian Ammar Shahkar Sayied (BBA Honors), recipient of the Shahjehan Syed Karim Gold Medal, reflected on the supportive academic environment at IoBM and encouraged his peers to pursue their dreams with determination.
The ceremony also paid tribute to the late Founder President, Mr Shahjehan Syed Karim, with a moving quote from his 2013 speech reminding graduates to honor their parents’ sacrifices.
Over three decades, IoBM has grown into a comprehensive academic institution comprising four colleges: Business Management; Computer Science and Information Systems; Engineering and Sciences; and Economics and Social Development. The institute offers diverse programs designed to prepare students for the global workforce.
Related: IoBM Hosts HEC NCRC Meeting on Computing and IT
This convocation celebrated a new generation of graduates equipped with the skills, values, and discipline to address real-world challenges and drive social and economic progress in Pakistan. As they step into roles across corporate, entrepreneurial, technological, and public sectors, they carry forward IoBM’s legacy of excellence and its mission to develop responsible, forward-thinking professionals.