Lahore, In a historic event for Punjab University, five Chinese scholars were among the recipients of PhD degrees at the university’s 133rd Convocation, highlighting the growing academic collaboration between China and Pakistan. The convocation saw a total of 343 PhD degrees awarded across various disciplines, along with 120 MPhil, 12 Master’s, and 116 BS gold medals, celebrating the achievements of students in a grand ceremony held at Faisal Auditorium.

According to University of the Punjab, Vice Chancellor Prof Dr. Khalid Mahmood presided over the convocation, which was attended by Registrar Dr. Ahmed Islam, Controller of Examinations Muhammad Rauf Nawaz, along with faculty deans, professors, and students along with their families. The Vice Chancellor emphasized the critical role of education and research in national development, noting that nations that prioritize these areas tend to achieve significant progress in understanding the universe and enhancing societal welfare.

Prof. Dr. Mahmood also highlighted the university’s recent academic achievements, including the introduction of new undergraduate and postgraduate programs designed to meet the modern market’s needs. He proudly noted that 19 of PU’s subjects have been ranked internationally by the QS ranking for the first time and celebrated the recognition of Punjab University as the number one university in Pakistan in various subjects by Times Higher Education.

Special congratulations were extended to the Chinese PhD recipients: Tian Xuefeng, Ren Guangxu, Gu Zhong, Cheng Linsheng in History, and Yung Hee Chun in Pakistan Studies. The ceremony also recognized Dr. Shoaib Aslam from the Punjab Institute of Cardiology, who was awarded an MS in Health Administration.

In total, degrees and medals were awarded to 1,111 candidates, marking the convocation as a significant milestone in the university’s history and its commitment to fostering international educational partnerships.