The National University of Modern Languages (NUML) held its 15thconvocation here in the university premises on Saturday. Advisor to Prime Minister on Institutional Reforms and Austerity Dr Ishrat Hussain was the chief guest at the ceremony. At the convocation, 327 students were conferred degrees and 20 gold medals were awarded to the graduates of different programs. NUML Rector Major General (r) Muhammad Jaffar, Director General Human Resource Development (HRD) General Headquarters Major General Nayyer Naseer, Director General NUML Brig Muhammad Ibrahim, registrar, deans, directors, heads of departments and a large number of students along with their parents attended the convocation. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Ishrat Hussain said it is matter of great pleasure for him to attend the convocation as chief guest. He congratulated the students, their parents and teachers on the successful completion of their degree and said that it is the first step for the students in lifelong learning. He said along with education, dedication, commitment and hardwork are key to achieving success in life. He stressed that the students must focus on ethical and moral values to develop a tolerant society. He said NUML is a unique university which is playing important role in global economy by teaching languages. Dr Ishrat said the government has started various programs for youth as youth is the asset of the country. He said under the Ehsaas Program, the government is providing two hundred thousand scholarships for the under-graduate students which is the largest number of scholarships ever offered. He said under Kamyab Jawan Program, a hefty amount has been earmarked to give loans to youth to start their own businesses. “It is need of the hour that we stand united in prevailing situation and play our due part for the development of this motherland,” he said. Earlier, Rector NUML Major General (r) Muhammad Jaffar welcomed the chief guest and highlighted the achievements and contributions made by the NUML in various fields of education, especially oriental and occidental languages, being one of the largest language universities in Asia. He said a newly constructed research center is almost ready for inauguration, which will help faculty and students expand their research scope and also provide excellent research opportunities. He highlighted that NUML while keeping in view the future demand has started new BS programs such as BS Area Studies (China) which will help students understand the importance of CPEC and regional developments. He said NUML is providing various facilities to students like career counselling and assisting them academically to choose right subject to excel in life. He said the university currently employs around 200 PhD faculty members while 117 more PhDs are expected to complete their degrees by next year.