The Faculty of Agricultural Sciences (FAS) at Punjab University (PU) held its annual ‘Entrepreneurship Gala 2024’ yesterday, a dynamic event designed to ignite entrepreneurial spirit among students. The event was graced by prominent figures including Member of National Assembly Shaista Parvez Malik, Former Federal Minister Abid Sher Ali, renowned poet Syed Salman Gillani, Chairman of Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) Syed Azfar Ali Nasir, former Minister of Health Dr. Saeed Elahi, and CEO of Raheem Store Rana Abdul Rafay. Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Prof. Dr. Saleem Haider, alongside faculty members and a large number of students, also attended the event.
In her keynote address, Shaista Parvez Malik emphasized the importance of nurturing entrepreneurial skills among the youth. “We need to instill in our young generation the spirit of entrepreneurship so that they become job creators instead of becoming job seekers,” she remarked, highlighting the need for a shift in the educational paradigm towards fostering innovation and self-reliance.
Abid Sher Ali toured the students’ stalls, showcasing various entrepreneurial projects and innovations. He praised the students’ efforts and underscored the significance of Punjab University in shaping the future leaders of Pakistan. “PU is the best university in Pakistan and has always produced the best people in every field,” he stated, commending the institution’s longstanding tradition of excellence.
Prof. Dr. Saleem Haider, in his address, lauded the quality of education and mentorship available at the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences. He pointed out the faculty’s remarkable achievement in securing a position in the QS World University Rankings, attributing this success to the dedicated efforts of both the students and the faculty. Dr. Haider also expressed his gratitude to the event organizers, including Dr. Bilal Chattha, Dr. Shinawar Wasim Ali, Dr. Muhammad Ali Klasra, Muhammad Arsalan Abbas, and Muhammad Zubair Maqsood, for their hard work in making the event a success.
The Entrepreneurship Gala 2024 not only served as a platform for students to exhibit their entrepreneurial ventures but also provided them with an invaluable opportunity to network with industry leaders and gain insights from their experiences. The event successfully underscored the university’s commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and innovation among its students, paving the way for a brighter and more self-sufficient future.