Islamabad, 14 August 2026(Kamran Raja): Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) celebrated Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day with national spirit and enthusiasm, reaffirming its commitment to promoting education and encouraging youth to play an active role in nation building.
At the main ceremony, Dean of the Faculty of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Prof. Dr. Shah Mohiuddin Hashmi, representing the Vice Chancellor, hoisted the national flag. A guard of honour was presented, the national anthem was played and special prayers were offered for the security, progress, prosperity and stability of Pakistan.
As part of the Independence Day celebrations, the Directorate of Students Advisory and Counselling Services, in collaboration with the Department of History, organized a seminar titled “August 14: A Day of Renewing Our Commitment” under the theme “Independence Day: From the Battle for Truth to Nation Building.”
The seminar focused on the objectives behind the creation of Pakistan, the significance of independence and the national responsibilities required for the country’s development and progress.
Speakers emphasized the importance of unity, mutual cooperation, tolerance, harmony and collective responsibility in strengthening Pakistan.
They said nations progress when their youth recognize their responsibilities towards the development and prosperity of their country and move forward with dedication and commitment.
The speakers described youth as Pakistan’s most valuable asset and stressed that young people should contribute to national development through education, research and positive activities.
They further observed that Independence Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for the creation of Pakistan and provides an opportunity to renew the commitment to fulfilling national responsibilities with honesty and sincerity.
The speakers called upon students and young people to play an active role in building a peaceful, prosperous, educated and stable Pakistan.
The speakers included Dean Faculty of Arabic and Islamic Studies Prof. Dr. Shah Mohyuddin Hashmi, Dean Faculty of Social Sciences Prof. Dr. Syed Muhammad Amir Shah, Dean Faculty of Sciences Prof. Dr. Sher Muhammad, Director Administration Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmed Arshad, Director General Regional Services Dr. Malik Tauqeer Ahmed Khan, Director Students Advisory and Counselling Services Syed Ghulam Kazim Ali, Dr. Kishwar Sultanah and Dr. Kausar Parveen.
A large number of university students, faculty members, officers and employees participated in the ceremony.
The event concluded with the cutting of the Independence Day cake and special prayers for the security, progress, prosperity and stability of Pakistan.