Islamabad, The Virtual University of Pakistan held the first phase of its 13th Convocation at the Jinnah Convention Center, graced by President Dr. Arif Alvi and Secretary of the Ministry of IT and Telecom, Mr. Hassan Nasir Jamy.

According to Virtual University of Pakistan, President Dr. Arif Alvi, who is also the Chancellor of the University, addressed the convocation. He emphasized the critical need for educational advancements in Pakistan, highlighting the significant number of out-of-school children requiring government attention. Dr. Alvi, a strong proponent of the Virtual University model, advocated for its adoption across other universities, praising its effective mode of education.

The Rector of Virtual University, Prof. Dr. Arshad Saleem Bhatti, spoke about the university’s contributions to national development, notably its expansion into underdeveloped areas like Balochistan and Turbat. He underscored the university’s international recognition, including an Excellence Award from the International Council for Open and Distance Education (ICDE).

During the 13th Convocation, 22,762 students became eligible for degrees in various disciplines across Pakistan, with 7,378 degrees conferred at the Islamabad event. Dr. Faisal Tehseen Shah, Controller of Examination, announced that in this phase of the convocation, 34 Gold Medals and 72 Merit Certificates were awarded to exceptional students in Islamabad.

The Rector expressed gratitude to President Dr. Arif Alvi, the Secretary of the Ministry of IT and Telecom, and the Virtual University community for their dedication to promoting online education in Pakistan. This event marks a significant milestone for the university, reflecting its growing influence and success in the field of distance education.