PU Celebrates Independence Day with Tree Plantation Drive

Punjab University (PU) Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood emphasized the value of freedom in his address during the Independence Day celebrations at the university. Speaking at the flag hoisting ceremony held outside the PU administration block, Prof Mahmood urged the audience to appreciate the freedom they enjoy, contrasting it with the plight of oppressed nations. “If we look at the slave nations, we will understand the true value of freedom,” he said, adding, “We should be thankful to Almighty Allah for blessing us with this priceless gift.”

The ceremony was attended by PU Registrar Dr Ahmad Islam, university faculty members, officers, employees, students, and their families. Special guests included PU students Abdul Rehman, Gohar Ayub, Zarak Khan, and Iqra, who recently won gold medals at the Asian Rowing Championship. The Vice Chancellor unfurled the national flag and released pigeons as a symbol of peace and freedom.

In his address, Prof Mahmood highlighted the ongoing persecution of minorities in Occupied Kashmir and India, particularly the challenges faced by Muslims. “Even today, Muslims in India do not have religious, cultural, and economic freedom,” he remarked. He also paid tribute to the vision and efforts of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Iqbal, and other leaders who fought for an independent homeland for Muslims.

Prof. Mahmood emphasized the role of education in nation-building, stating that PU educates students from across the country, from Gwadar to Skardu. He called on students, teachers, and employees to contribute to the development and unity of Pakistan. “With hard work, honesty, and dedication, we can make the Pakistani nation one of the best in the world,” he said. He also commended the university’s teachers and employees for their contributions to the country’s progress.

The audience paid tribute to the students who won gold medals at the Asian Rowing Championship, recognizing their achievement as a source of pride for the nation. Prayers were offered for a prosperous and secure Pakistan.

Following the ceremony, Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood inaugurated an olive grove at the Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB) as part of the university’s ongoing tree plantation drive. He was joined by CEMB Director Dr Muazur Rehman, Director CAMB Prof Rehan Sadiq, and other distinguished guests, including Prof Zubair Ahmed from the University of Maryland (UMD) USA.

In his message, Prof Mahmood urged everyone to participate in the plantation drive to ensure a safe and sustainable future for Pakistan. “The effects of climate change can be minimized in Pakistan through widespread tree plantation,” he emphasized.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to making Pakistan a better place for future generations, both through education and environmental stewardship.