LOWER DIR: University of Malakand (UoM) Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Rashid Ahmad urged students to focus on modern education and technology rather than certificates and degrees, so they could better serve both the nation and their families. He was addressing a certificate distribution ceremony at the National Institute of Education in Timergara as chief guest on Monday. A total of 32 students of BS Zoology, Political Science and English Literature were awarded degrees on the occasion. The function was also addressed by the institute’s managing director Prof Abdullah Jan, principal Akbar Hussain and others. The UoM vice chancellor stressed that the youth should realise the current challenges and be prepared to cope with them. He asked them to play an active role in bringing about positive change in society. He appreciated the standard and quality of education imparted to students by the private institutes affiliated with UoM and stated that the university never compromised on the quality of education. Meanwhile shields, trophies and cash prizes were also distributed among position holder students of a private high school during a separate function. The school principal Salar Khan and renowned educationist Faridullah Khan also spoke on the occasion. The speakers appreciated the role of the private sector in promoting quality education.