Habib University conferred degrees on 188 graduates at its 7th commencement ceremony for the Class of 2024. Amid celebrations, the graduates expressed solidarity with the people of Gaza, voicing their support and grief for the Palestinians facing genocide.
This remarkable cohort, which began its journey at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, demonstrated incredible resilience and determination to reach this milestone.
The ceremony, held at a local hotel, marked the successful completion of their undergraduate studies, showcasing their deep introspection, perseverance, and dedication. Degrees were awarded from the university’s two schools: the Dhanani School of Science and Engineering (DSSE) and the School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (AHSS). DSSE saw 91 graduates in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Computer Science, while AHSS graduated 97 students with degrees in Social Development and Policy, Communication and Design, and Comparative Humanities.
The event was live-streamed, allowing Habib University’s global community, including Board of Governors, Board of Directors of Habib University Foundation, graduate students, and others, to join the celebrations remotely. QaimaHussain, a Comparative Humanities major, was named the valedictorian for the Class of 2024.
In her poignant speech, she called for a moment of silence for the Palestinian people, expressing feelings of anger, grief, and hopelessness. She dedicated her speech to Gaza’s Class of 2024, emphasizing resistance and commitment to humanity.
Reflecting on Habib University’s mission to empower thoughtful leaders, she said, “Our majors have equipped us with varying forms of knowledge, but we all share a unique attunement to melancholy, which is our greatest collective strength. This awareness of grief and hardship compels us to imagine and work towards better futures.”
The graduates also wore badges on their gowns in support of the Palestinian cause. President WasifRizvi addressed the ceremony, highlighting the atrocities of genocides and the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge and cultures. He thanked the Mohsineen for their remarkable support, noting that 87% of the graduating batch received scholarships.
The keynote address was delivered by esteemed architect, author, and educator Kamil Khan Mumtaz. The ceremony was graced by Vice Chancellor Rafiq M. Habib, proud family members, Mohsineen, and other members of the university community.
