KARACHI: As many as 1,591 graduates received their degrees during the 27th convocation of the Institute of Business Management (IoBM) on Saturday. Among the graduating class, 24 outstanding students received gold medals, while 44 were awarded merit certificates. Degrees were conferred across a range of programs, including BBA, BS, MBA, MS, MPhil, and PhD. Speaking as the chief guest, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori urged graduates to reflect on the journey their parents have supported from their first day of school to this milestone. He praised the leadership of IoBM’s late founder Shahjehan Syed Karim, who established the institute as a premier center of higher education. He encouraged the youth to raise their voices, take initiative, and work toward a brighter and more promising future. Former caretaker minister Dr Gohar Ejaz emphasised the exclusivity of the graduates’ achievement, noting that their seats represented less than one per cent of all graduates. He highlighted Pakistan’s immense potential for growth and the opportunities available for young professionals. “We have immense potential to grow, and what we need today is you,” he concluded. IoBM President Talib Karim presented the institute’s progress report, showcasing its commitment to achieving AACSB accreditation, expanding global partnerships for alumni, and integrating advanced technology into the curriculum. He also highlighted the work of IoBM’s Center for Islamic Business and Finance, which aligns its initiatives with the developmental goals set by the government. In his Welcome Address, IoBM Chancellor Bashir Janmohammad advised graduates to respect their parents, dream big, and develop entrepreneurial skills to add value to their lives and careers. He acknowledged the essential role parents play in helping students achieve their dreams. Former caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar expressed his excitement at being among the youth. “I feel energised when I am surrounded by young minds brimming with vigor. A formal education helps channel this energy toward meaningful objectives,” he said. He encouraged graduates to contribute to building an egalitarian society and to embrace new aspirations, emphasising the connection between creativity and the essence of life. In her keynote speech, Yasmin Fasih remarked, “Today, we celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in your lives.” Reflecting on her own journey at IoBM, she credited the institute for playing a pivotal role in her success. She encouraged graduates to remain purposeful, embrace lifelong learning, and take chances in life. Valedictorian Rida Asif, the recipient of the Shahjehan Syed Karim Gold Medal, emphasised the importance of corporate social responsibility. She urged her fellow graduates to use their education and skills to drive meaningful change and make a positive impact on society.