By our correspondent
The University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore organized its Annual Alumni Gathering in a grand and dignified manner. Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives and distinguished UET alumnus, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, attended the event as the Chief Guest, while Vice Chancellor UET, Professor Dr. Shahid Munir, presided over the ceremony.
The event was attended Vice Chancellors of various universities, Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, faculty members, and a large number of UET alumni from across Pakistan as well as from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, Dubai and other countries.
Addressing the gathering, Federal Minister Professor Ahsan Iqbal said that engineers play a pivotal role in national development and serve as the backbone of sustainable progress. He stated that Pakistan’s economy has now moved in the right direction and the government aims to transform Pakistan into a one-trillion-dollar economy by 2035. He remarked that after success in the “Battle for Truth,” Pakistan will also succeed in the “Battle for Development.”
Professor Ahsan Iqbal expressed pride in returning to his alma mater as a UET alumnus and termed the opportunity to address the gathering as a great honor. Sharing memories of his student life, he recalled serving as President of the Students’ Union, during which several student-focused initiatives were launched, including the revival of Student Week and the resumption of convocations. He said that UET not only provided him with technical education but also nurtured his leadership skills, enabling him to serve the country today.
He emphasized that engineers contribute significantly to infrastructure development, industrial growth, energy projects, communication systems, technology and innovation. Roads, bridges, dams, power systems, factories, IT solutions and digital transformation are all the result of engineers’ expertise. He added that without fully utilizing the potential of engineers, sustainable national development is not possible.
Highlighting his vision for Pakistan’s future, Professor Ahsan Iqbal stressed the need to transition towards a Knowledge-Based Economy to ensure long-term economic stability and growth. He urged young engineers and alumni to actively engage in research, innovation and industrial development to enable Pakistan to compete effectively at the global level. He noted that knowledge is evolving rapidly and that continuous innovation and research are essential to remain relevant in the modern world.
The Federal Minister announced that the government is launching a national internship program for young engineers during the current year. He explained that, similar to mandatory house jobs for medical graduates, a one-year paid internship will be introduced for engineering graduates in ongoing development projects across the country. The program has been finalized by the Ministry of Planning and will soon be launched under the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, providing young engineers with valuable practical experience and employment opportunities.
He further stated that the government is taking serious measures to promote education, research and technology, and higher educational institutions are being developed as centers of national progress. Youth are being provided with opportunities aligned with modern requirements to promote industrial self-reliance, technological advancement and sustainable economic growth.
Professor Ahsan Iqbal urged teachers and students to link research with practical problem-solving, emphasizing that today’s students are tomorrow’s nation builders. He also appreciated UET’s academic and research contributions and reaffirmed the government’s continued support for the institution.
On the occasion, Vice Chancellor UET Professor Dr. Shahid Munir presented a comprehensive briefing on the university’s academic performance, educational standards, ongoing research initiatives and future goals. He acknowledged the significant role of UET alumni in the development of the university and the country. The Vice Chancellor also commended the Management Committee for their dedication, professionalism and tireless efforts in successfully organizing the Annual Alumni Gathering.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, commemorative shields were presented to alumni for their financial support of various academic and development projects at UET. A special souvenir shield was also presented to the Chief Guest, Professor Ahsan Iqbal. The participants were later hosted at a luncheon.
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