2,523 graduates awarded degrees at Dow University’s 14th convocation

KARACHI: The 14th convocation of Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) was held at the Ojha Campus Cricket Ground, where Sindh Governor and University Chancellor Kamran Khan Tessori urged Pakistan’s youth to keep pace with global advancements.

The event celebrated the achievements of 2,523 graduates, including four PhD recipients.

Addressing the graduates, Governor Tessori stressed the need for these graduates’ contributions to the country's economic and social progress.

Acknowledging the challenges Pakistan faces, he stressed that the nation's future lies in the hands of its youth. He also praised the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Prof Muhammad Saeed Quraishy and the university's commitment to excellence.

Registrar Dr Ashar Afaq administered the oath of service to humanity to MBBS graduates. Among the attendees were Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof Nazli Hossain, Dow Medical College Principal Prof Saba Sohail, and other faculty members.

VC Prof Quraishy, in his speech, underscored the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, emphasising the shift from a one-size-fits-all approach to precision medicine guided by molecular research.

Highlighting Dow University’s state-of-the-art facilities, he announced three new academic programmes—Molecular Medicine, Forensic Science, and Cardiovascular Technology -- urging graduates to embrace collaboration, effective communication, and a broader appreciation of life beyond medicine.

Prof Nazli Hossain lauded the students’ dedication, calling the convocation a celebration of their tireless efforts.

Prof Saba Sohail acknowledged the growing challenges posed by AI and technological advancements in the medical field but expressed confidence in the graduates' abilities to adapt and thrive.

Outstanding graduates shared their journeys during the ceremony.

The Best Graduate Award, named after the late Prof Muhammad Shafiq Quraishy, was presented to a student from Dow Medical College. Eisha Farid (Dow Medical College), Izma Khan (DIEKIOHS), and Mashook Rahim (BSN, Tharparkar) were among the top achievers honoured. In total, 78 medals—Gold, Silver, and Bronze—were awarded to the top three graduates from each of the university’s 14 institutes and colleges. An additional 90 students from affiliated institutions also received medals.

The breakdown of the 2,523 degree recipients includes 327 medical graduates from Dow Medical College, 137 from Dow International Medical College, 47 from Dow Dental College, and 53 from Dow International Dental College.

Other notable graduations included 143 Pharm-D students, 374 BSN Generic students, 638 Post-RN BS students, and a diverse array of degrees in medical technology, nursing, biotechnology, and public health, among others.

The ceremony highlighted DUHS's continued commitment to academic excellence and innovation, preparing graduates to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.