On June 1, 2025, Habib University proudly hosted its 8th Convocation Ceremony at the Pearl Continental Hotel (The Marquee), celebrating the academic excellence, resilience, and transformative journeys of the Class of 2025. This milestone event honored 237 graduates, shaped by the university’s distinctive liberal arts and sciences education rooted in the philosophy of Yohsin—thoughtful self-cultivation.
A Celebration of Purpose, Passion, and Progress
This year’s convocation was a powerful reflection of the impact of a reparative curriculum—one that challenges conventional norms and empowers students to become agents of meaningful change. The ceremony was attended by proud families, esteemed faculty, and prominent members of Pakistan’s academic and civic communities.
Valedictorian Address: A Call to “Give Forward”
Iman Ashraf, Valedictorian from the Comparative Humanities program, delivered a moving speech that captured the spirit of the graduating class:
“We’ve learned to unlearn, to question, to be resilient… If we truly long for the world we wish we had been born into, then words must become actions… Let us carve out space—not just to give back, but to give forward.”
Her words resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing the importance of embodying values through action.
Class valedictorian Iman Ashraf addressing the Class of 2025.
President Wasif Rizvi: Redefining Progress
In a thought-provoking address, President Wasif Rizvi challenged dominant narratives of modernity and progress:
“What we often call progress is merely a more efficient form of cruelty… And yet, here you are—Class of 2025. You were formed at Habib University—a rare sanctuary in today’s world… Yohsin is not just a philosophy; it is a portal to living with beauty, passion, and purpose.”
President Rizvi also reaffirmed Habib University’s commitment to access and equity, sharing that 83% of the Class of 2025 received financial support—a testament to the generosity of the Mohsineen, the university’s esteemed donor community.
President Wasif Rizvi shared a thought-provoking speech for the graduating class.
Commencement Address by Dr. Shamshad Akhtar
Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, world-renowned economist and Chairperson of the Pakistan Stock Exchange, delivered the keynote address. She encouraged graduates to pursue excellence with humility:
“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude. Think high. What you become by achieving your goals is more important than what you get.”
Dr Shamshad Akhtar encourages graduates to move forward with humility.
Chancellor Rafiq M. Habib: A Tribute to the Graduates
Mr. Rafiq M. Habib, Chancellor of Habib University, praised the graduating class for their curiosity, enthusiasm, and strong community spirit:
“You are what makes Habib University. You leave equipped with the finest undergraduate education in Pakistan, ready for whatever path you choose.”
Looking Ahead: The Legacy of the Class of 2025
As the Class of 2025 steps into the world, they carry forward the values of inquiry, compassion, and purpose that define the Habib experience. Their journey is a testament to what is possible when education is rooted in thoughtful self-cultivation and supported by a community committed to transformative change.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025—the future is yours to shape.
