Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousuf addressed Riphah University’s annual convocation in Islamabad on 22 November 2025, extending heartfelt congratulations to the graduating students and their families.
The minister congratulated all graduates, parents and teachers for their dedication, saying that the achievement is a collective success born of sacrifice and perseverance. He emphasized at the Riphah convocation that the degree represents the beginning of a new journey rather than a final destination.
Sardar Muhammad Yousuf expressed confidence that these talented young men and women will raise living standards and play a meaningful role in Pakistan’s development. He noted that in an era of globalization, university programmes should prepare students to address not only local issues but also global challenges.
Highlighting international cooperation, the minister congratulated more than 100 Palestinian students who obtained degrees through exchange programmes with Pakistani universities, celebrating their success as part of Riphah University’s inclusive academic community.
Education and research were singled out by the minister as the pathways through which the country can advance and influence the world. He urged universities to equip students with professional skills while also focusing on character building and the promotion of ethical values.
Acknowledging limits on state capacity, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf said the government cannot meet all higher education demands alone and called for a stronger role by the private sector to complement public efforts. He reminded the audience that Pakistan’s youth form a substantial portion of the population and represent the foundation of national progress.
The minister closed by urging graduates to apply their abilities for the country’s development, to seek direction, confidence and opportunities, and to honour the sacrifices of the parents and teachers who helped them reach this milestone.
