PU IQTM holds first convocation, awards degrees and gold medals to graduates

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd May, 2026) Punjab University (PU) Institute of Quality and Technology Management (IQTM) held its first-ever convocation in a graceful ceremony, marking a significant milestone in its academic journey, here on Sunday.

Degrees, gold medals, and certificates of distinction were awarded to graduating students of various academic programs.

The ceremony was attended by Chairman Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, Vice Chancellor Punjab University Dr Muhammad Ali, Director IQTM Dr Usman Awan, Director IIEM Dr Muhammad Shafiq, senior faculty members, deans, students, and parents.

Addressing the convocation, Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar expressed immense satisfaction over the remarkable growth of the institution, stating that its foundation was initially laid “from a single room.” He recalled that the PC-I of the institute was approved in 2005, followed by the establishment of its building, and in 2020 it was upgraded to a full-fledged faculty. He said IQTM is playing a vital role in improving industrial production, managerial efficiency, and technological advancement in Pakistan.

He further said universities are not only degree-awarding institutions but are responsible for creating knowledge, ensuring its practical application, and instilling professional skills and ethics among students. He added that HEC is expanding scholarship opportunities, including 10,000 scholarships for China and 400 for Hungary, while also promoting short skill-based courses to enhance employability among youth.

Vice Chancellor Dr Muhammad Ali congratulated the graduating students and their parents, describing the convocation as the beginning of a new phase of responsibility. He said the University of the Punjab has produced generations of scholars, scientists, and professionals serving across the globe. He termed Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar the “architect” of IQTM, saying the institute has emerged as a model of academic excellence under his leadership.

He emphasized that IQTM graduates are highly valued in the job market due to their blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. He especially encouraged female graduates to actively utilize their education, linking women’s empowerment with economic empowerment. He added that true success lies in knowledge, character, and piety rather than wealth or power.

Earlier, Director IQTM Dr Usman Awan highlighted that Punjab University was the first in Pakistan to launch academic programs in Quality and Technology Management. He said IQTM is strengthening industry-academia linkages and producing graduates equipped to serve major sectors of the national economy. He also noted that the Vice Chancellor’s new research policy has enabled faculty to commercialize research and contribute to national development.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, degrees, medals, and certificates were distributed among graduates amid applause from attendees, while parents expressed joy and pride over their children’s academic achievements.