Punjab University (PU) Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood has called on journalists, politicians, and bureaucrats to work collaboratively for the greater good of Pakistan. This message was delivered during a special ceremony organized by the PU School of Communication Studies’ departments and alumni office to honor Salman Ghani, a distinguished alumnus and senior journalist, who recently received the Presidential Pride of Performance Award.

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The ceremony, held at PU, brought together several prominent journalists, academicians, faculty members and students. Notable attendees included senior journalists Mujeeb ur Rehman Shami, Sajjad Mir, Dr Mujahid Ali Mansoori, Dr Aslam Dogar, Salman Abid, Director PU Alumni Office Prof Dr Mumtaz Anwar Choudhary, Director SCS Prof Dr Noshina Saleem, Chairperson Department of Public Relations and Advertising Prof Dr Abida Ashraf, Chairperson Department of Digital Media Prof Dr Savera Shami, and Chairperson Department of Media and Development Communication Dr Ayesha Ashfaq.

In his address, Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood highlighted the significant contributions of the PU’s Department of Journalism in shaping eminent personalities in various media sectors worldwide. He praised Salman Ghani as an impartial analyst and a beacon of hard work and honesty, urging current students to follow his exemplary path and contribute positively to the nation’s image.

Mujeeb ur Rehman Shami emphasized the importance of mutual respect and tolerance between politics and journalism, noting that freedom of expression should not compromise truthfulness. He applauded Salman Ghani’s rise from a middle-class background to prominence in journalism, advocating for ethical reporting and analysis.

Sajjad Mir acknowledged the challenges of maintaining integrity in contemporary journalism, citing Salman Ghani’s career as a testament to honest journalism. He lamented the overall decline in various sectors in Pakistan but highlighted individuals like Ghani as beacons of hope and inspiration.

Mujahid Ali Mansoori lauded Ghani’s ability to engage both students and teachers, while Dr Aslam Dogar reflected on Ghani’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to receiving national recognition. Salman Abid commended Ghani’s analytical acumen and constructive criticism, and Dr Noshina Saleem discussed the persistent challenges faced by journalists in Pakistan’s evolving political landscape.

Prof Dr Abida Ashraf, Dr Savera Shami and Dr Ayesha Ashfaq each acknowledged Salman Ghani’s profound impact on PU’s journalism department and the broader field of Pakistani journalism. They described him as a cornerstone of the department and a stellar example of credible journalism.

In his acceptance speech, Salman Ghani expressed gratitude to Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood and the School of Communication Studies for the honor. He emphasized Punjab University’s role in fostering political awareness and promoting democratic values. Dedicating his award to the journalist community, Ghani affirmed his commitment to maintaining high standards in journalism.

The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to Salman Ghani by Prof Dr. Khalid Mahmood and Dr. Noshina Saleem, marking a memorable celebration of journalistic excellence and the enduring legacy of PU’s alumni.