Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Senator Rubina Khalid, visited Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology (GIKI) as the chief guest for the induction ceremony of the new batch of students. The event was attended by Salim Saifullah Khan, President of the Society for the Promotion of Engineering Sciences and Technology in Pakistan (SOPREST) and Board of Governors GIK Institute, Executive Director SOPREST Shakil Durrani, Rector Prof. Dr. Fazal Ahmad Khalid, students from across the country, Pro-Rectors, Deans, Heads of Departments, and various dignitaries.
Rubina Khalid emphasized the importance of unity and working together to strengthen the country. She encouraged the youth to promote tolerance, critical thinking, and social change actively.
“There is a dire need for social change, and the younger generation must play a role in distinguishing right from wrong and fostering a culture of understanding,” she said.
She also discussed social media’s influence on society and stressed the importance of using words wisely to build character.
Keeping in mind Pakistan’s internal and external challenges, there is a dire need for coordinated efforts and giving up the practice of protest. The people believe in peace and progress of the country, she said.
President of SOPREST, Engr. Salim Saifullah Khan addressed the students: “You are the future of Pakistan.”
He praised the efforts of the late Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto in establishing BISP. BISP currently supports 9.3 million underprivileged women across the country, and the number of beneficiaries is expected to reach 10 million soon.
On the occasion, Prof. Dr. Fazal Ahmad Khalid remarked: “GIK Institute has become an icon of quality education over the past three decades.”
He noted that the Institute’s over 7,500 alumni work in multinational companies worldwide.
