LAHORE: University of Management and Technology (UMT) celebrated 71st Independence Day of Pakistan with traditional zeal and fervor. Earlier Rector of the varsity Dr. Muhammad Aslam hoisted the national flag along with the university staff and the faculty. Speaking on the occasion, he said Pakistan was the outcome of unremitting struggle of our forefathers who paid a heavy price for its inception. He said Pakistan was one of the miracles of Almighty God and those who hatch conspiracies against our beloved homeland would never succeed in their evil intentions. He said it was our responsibility to put the country on the lines of hundred percent literacy rate, economic sustainability, social harmony and political stability so that the dream of leading in the world comes true. Dr. Aslam said without investment in higher education, we could not compete with other nations of the world and that the secret of peace and prosperity lied in education, which was engine for reforms in all sectors. He said that the new government should formulate long-term policies on economy especially reforms in education be made at all levels so that real development in all branches of human life takes its roots in the country. Dr. Aslam said that access to quality education was the right to every citizen irrespective of caste, color and religion as all were equal in the eyes of law. He urged on creating maximum opportunities for the university graduates so that they enthusiastically play their needed role for stronger national economy. Published in Daily Times, August 16th 2018.