The Rawalpindi Women University marked Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day with a dignified ceremony that brought together the spirit of patriotism, national responsibility and a renewed commitment to the country’s progress. The celebrations featured a Guard of Honour, flag hoisting, the national anthem, prayers for the country’s peace and prosperity, the unveiling of the university’s new anthem, a cake-cutting ceremony and a tree plantation drive.
The ceremony commenced with a Guard of Honour presented to Vice Chancellor RWU, Prof. Dr. Tayyaba Zarif, followed by the hoisting of the national flag. The national anthem was played as participants joined in the patriotic spirit, while special prayers were offered for Pakistan’s security, stability, progress and prosperity.
A key highlight of the celebrations was the formal launch of Rawalpindi Women University’s new anthem. The anthem, performed with enthusiastic participation by the university’s students, was warmly received by faculty members, officers, staff and other participants.
Giving the celebrations an environmental dimension, Prof. Dr. Tayyaba Zarif inaugurated a tree plantation drive by planting a sapling on the university campus. Saplings were also distributed among participants with the message of extending the plantation effort beyond the university and contributing to a greener Pakistan. Students who participated in the university anthem and other patriotic songs were also presented certificates in recognition of their contribution.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Dr. Tayyaba Zarif said Pakistan’s independence was achieved through the sacrifices, courage, determination and faith of those who struggled for the creation of the country. She said independence was not merely a historic achievement but carried with it the enduring responsibility to build a strong, prosperous and dignified Pakistan.
Drawing on more than three decades of experience in teaching, research and university administration, the Vice Chancellor emphasised that education remains one of the most powerful foundations of national development. She said universities must go beyond producing graduates and focus on developing knowledge, character, critical thinking, leadership and a strong sense of responsible citizenship.
Prof. Dr. Tayyaba Zarif particularly highlighted the role of women’s education in national development, saying that educating women means strengthening Pakistan’s human capital and creating stronger families and communities. She said the young women of today must be prepared not merely to participate in Pakistan’s future but to shape it as leaders, decision-makers and architects of national progress.
Referring to the educational vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, she said knowledge, character, discipline, confidence and a sense of responsibility were essential to building a strong nation. She reaffirmed that Rawalpindi Women University would continue to contribute to national development through education, research, innovation, character building and the empowerment of women.
The ceremony concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to playing their part in Pakistan’s progress, peace, stability and prosperity and to carrying forward the vision and sacrifices of the founders of Pakistan.
