LAHORE: The 13th convocation of Punjab University’s Hailey College of Banking & Finance (HCBF) was held on Saturday. Provincial Minister for Higher Education Rana Sikandar Hayat Khan, PU Vice-Chancellor (VC) Prof Dr Muhammad Ali Shah, Pro VC Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood, Faculty of Commerce Dean Prof Dr Mubbsher Munawar Khan, HCBF Principal Dr Ahmed Muneeb Mehta, Registrar Dr Ahmed Islam, Controller of Examinations Muhammad Rauf Nawaz, faculty members, students, and their parents were present at the ceremony. During the event, VC Mr Shah said that new degree programmes would be introduced to develop skills among students. He said employment opportunities for students would be increased through skill-based education. He said he would take it as a mission to provide quality education, making students specialized in their fields, and nurturing them into well-rounded people. He said that with hard work, students could achieve great heights in their careers. Prof Shah, sharing his personal journey from a village in Chiniot to his current position, encouraged students to work hard and contribute positively to the nation. He also mentioned the development of Quaid-i-Azam University under his leadership, where it climbed significantly in the world rankings. He raised concerns about the lack of a Software Technology Park at PU, despite one existing at Dera Ghazi Khan University. The VC also thanked the chief minister for ensuring merit-based appointments of university vice-chancellors, considering it a major step towards improving the nation’s education system. He encouraged students to value knowledge and piety over wealth and power, and reminded them of the importance of respecting their parents. HCBF Principal Dr Ahmed Muneeb Mehta, while congratulating the graduating students, mentioned that the college had introduced new degree programs that align with modern market needs. He extended his congratulations to the parents of the students as well. Minister Hayat said the Punjab government would give 40,000 laptops to talented students. He said that the chief minister is introducing scholarships programmes for 30,000 students next week.