A vibrant sense of excitement and boundless ambition illuminated the faces of the 1,591 graduates as they received their degrees during the 27th Convocation of the Institute of Business Management (IoBM) on Saturday. Aspiring entrepreneurs and future leaders celebrated this significant milestone with enthusiasm, sharing the joyous moment with their proud parents. Among the graduating class, 24 exceptional students were awarded gold medals, while 44 received merit certificates. Degrees were conferred across a diverse range of programs, including BBA, BS, MBA, MS, MPhil, and PhD.
The event was honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori as the Chief Guest; Dr. Gohar Ejaz, former caretaker Federal Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Production, as the Guest of Honor; and former caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan, Anwaarul Haq Kakar. The Keynote Speaker was Yasmin Fasih, an IoBM alumna from the first batch (1997), currently serving as the Regional Human Resource Manager for Operations Execution in the Asia-Pacific region at Maersk, Singapore.
Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori, in his address, encouraged the graduates to reflect on the day their parents accompanied them on their first day of school and how their unwavering support has guided them to this significant milestone. He praised the visionary leadership of IoBM’s late Founder President, Shahjehan Syed Karim, for establishing this prestigious institute of higher learning. Tessori called upon the youth to raise their voices, take initiative, and work toward creating a brighter and more promising future for themselves and the nation.
Dr. Gohar Ejaz highlighted that the seats occupied by the graduates today represent less than one percent of all graduates, emphasizing the exclusivity and privilege of their achievement. He noted the immense opportunities available in Pakistan and presented an economic overview of the country, illustrating how graduates can contribute to various sectors. “We have immense potential to grow, and what we need today is you!” he concluded.
IoBM President Talib Karim presented the Institute’s Progress Report, underscoring IoBM’s dedication to achieving AACSB accreditation, expanding global partnerships for alumni, and integrating advanced technology into the curriculum to enhance the learning experience. He also highlighted the efforts of IoBM’s Center for Islamic Business and Finance, which is actively aligning its initiatives with the broader developmental goals set by the government.
In his Welcome Address, IoBM Chancellor Bashir Janmohammad advised the graduates to always respect their parents. He encouraged them to dream big and develop entrepreneurial skills to add value to their lives and careers. He also acknowledged the unwavering support of parents in helping students achieve their dreams.
Anwaarul Haq Kakar expressed his excitement about being among the youth, stating, “I feel energized when I am surrounded by young minds brimming with vigor. A formal education helps channel this energy toward meaningful objectives.” He encouraged the graduates to actively contribute to building an egalitarian society where everyone fulfills their role according to their abilities, describing it as the Pakistani dream we must collectively strive to achieve. He also urged the graduates to embrace new aspirations, emphasizing that creativity is deeply connected to the essence of life.
During her keynote speech, Yasmin Fasih remarked, “Today, we celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in your lives.” She commended the graduates for their hard work and perseverance, reflecting on her own journey at IoBM and how it played a pivotal role in her success. “Remain deliberate and purposeful in your approach, embrace lifelong learning, and don’t hesitate to take chances in life,” she encouraged.
Valedictorian Rida Asif, the proud recipient of the Shahjehan Syed Karim Gold Medal, highlighted the importance of corporate social responsibility in her address. She encouraged her fellow graduates to utilize their education and skills to drive meaningful change and make a positive impact on society.
IoBM’s 27th Convocation was more than just an academic milestone; it was a celebration of perseverance, dedication, and triumph. The event paid heartfelt tribute to the unwavering support of parents and faculty, whose guidance and encouragement played a vital role in shaping the graduates’ journey toward a bright and promising future.
