Islamabad, The Virtual University of Pakistan celebrated the first phase of its 13th Convocation at Jinnah Convention Center, Islamabad, with President of Pakistan and Chancellor of Virtual University, His Excellency Dr. Arif Alvi, as the chief guest. Secretary of the Ministry of IT and Telecom, Mr. Hassan Nasir Jamy, was also present as a special guest.

According to Virtual University of Pakistan, President Dr. Arif Alvi addressed the convocation, stressing the importance of educational improvement in Pakistan. He highlighted the need to focus on the millions of out-of-school children and called for enhanced educational infrastructure. Dr. Alvi praised the Virtual University for its unique educational model and its significant contribution to Pakistan’s higher education sector without relying on government funding.

Prof. Dr. Arshad Saleem Bhatti, Rector of Virtual University, underscored the university’s commitment to national development, particularly through establishing campuses in Balochistan and Turbat to serve underdeveloped areas. He also mentioned the university’s recent international accolades, including the Excellence Award from the International Council for Open and Distance Education (ICDE).

During the convocation, a total of 22,762 students across Pakistan became eligible for various degrees, including Associate Degrees, B.Ed., Bachelors, BS, Masters, and MS. Specifically, 7,378 degrees were conferred at the Jinnah Convention Center in Islamabad. Additionally, Dr. Faisal Tehseen Shah, Controller of Examinations, noted that 34 Gold Medals and 72 Merit Certificates were awarded to outstanding students in Islamabad.

The convocation marks a significant achievement for Virtual University and its graduates, reflecting the institution’s role in shaping the future of online education in Pakistan.