14/08/2026
True Patriotism is linked with Passion for Progress, Prof. Dr. Zafar Nawaz Jaspal, Vice Chancellor QAU
Today Pakistan is shinning on the world horizon with dignity, Dr. Sajid Mahmood Awan, Director NIHCR
NIHCR hosts a dignified ceremony to mark Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day.....................
Islamabad (P.R): Imbued with the spirit of patriotism, a dignified ceremony was held at the National Institute of Historical and Cultural Research (NIHCR), Centre of Excellence, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, to commemorate Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day.
The *Chief Guest Professor Dr. Zafar Nawaz Jaspal* , Vice Chancellor Quaid-i-Azam University, said in his address that the true message of Independence Day was to cultivate a sense of responsibility, awareness, and an unwavering commitment to progress as a nation. He urged the people, particularly students, never to lag behind in the pursuit of knowledge, research, and intellectual standing.
Addressing the students in particular, Professor Jaspal said that Pakistan’s future is deeply linked with them. “They are the hope and light of the nation,” he said, emphasizing that students should devote their energies to education and skills development.
On Independence Day, he said, the nation renews its pledge to contribute to Pakistan’s development and prosperity. He expressed his pride and satisfaction that graduates of Quaid-i-Azam University are serving in key positions at leading institutions and making significant contributions towards the progress of the country.
Professor Jaspal also appreciated the scholarly, research, and cultural contributions of the NIHCR. He emphasized that history and culture form the foundation of a nation’s collective consciousness and identity. He stressed the need to transmit history to the younger generation through rigorous research and academic integrity.
He congratulated the Institute for organizing a splendid Independence Day ceremony and expressed his appreciation for the national songs, performances, and tableau presented by the children of the Murid i Iqbal Foundation. He particularly praised Mehr Fatima for her English speech, describing it as a sincere expression of his heartfelt sentiments.
On the occasion, the Vice Chancellor formally inaugurated the Institute’s solar energy project and appreciated the administration for this important initiative. He later planted a sapling in the garden, cut the Independence Day cake, and offered prayers for a green, prosperous, and peaceful Pakistan.
Dr. Sajid Mahmood Awan, Director NIHCR, said that the day was not only one of the most memorable and significant days in Pakistan’s history but also an important day in the history of the world. He said that today Pakistan’s name is held in respect and esteem in every corner of the world. Pakistan, he added, is not merely a piece of land but a focal point of the aspirations of the entire Muslim world. He observed that following Pakistan’s remarkable success in the May 2025 Indo-Pak war, the country had altered the dynamics of international politics. Referring to Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to prevent the ongoing Iran-Israel-US conflict from escalating into a wider war, he said the ‘Islamabad Declaration’ and Pakistan’s pragmatic diplomatic role demonstrated that the country had attained a prominent position in the international arena. He said every Pakistani should take pride in this achievement and celebrate Independence Day with enthusiasm and a renewed sense of national dignity.
Dr. Muhammad Arif, representative of Murid i Iqbal Foundation said that Allama Muhammad Iqbal awakened among the Muslims of the subcontinent a consciousness of selfhood, freedom, and a distinct national identity. He also paid tribute to Allama Iqbal by presenting his own poem.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of national songs and special tableau by the children and students of Bright Hall Public School, Hasan Abdal. Through their melodious and enthusiastic performances, the children highlighted their love for Pakistan, the value of freedom, and the spirit of national unity. Their performances were warmly appreciated by the participants. Shahid Mahmood Qasmi and Ms. Alia Munawar anchored the programme in a well-mannered way.
3/3
