In a resplendent occasion that resonated with reverence and inspiration, the Government College University (GCU) Lahore bestowed a momentous lifetime achievement award upon General (R) Raheel Sharif, a luminary renowned for his role as the former Chief of Army Staff and the pioneering Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) in KSA.
The Vice-Chancellor of Government College University Lahore, Prof. Dr. Syed Asghar Zaidi (T.I), presented the distinguished accolade, a symbol of General (R) Raheel Sharif’s unparalleled contributions, encapsulating the essence of honor and national pride.
Prof. Zaidi, in his address, eloquently captured the significance of this celebratory event. He underlined the profound connection between students and their alma mater, a relationship that forms the backbone of institutional pride. In this light, Gen. (R) Raheel Sharif’s journey stood as a beacon of success, reflecting the caliber of individuals produced by the esteemed institution.
As the spotlight remained fixed on Gen. (R) Raheel Sharif, the revered military figure took center stage, addressing the gathering with humility and a profound sense of appreciation. “It is a matter of great pride and honor for me to stand here today and receive this prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from my alma mater,” he conveyed while the weight of the recognition was apparent in his words.
However, his address extended beyond personal gratitude; it transformed into a motivational discourse for the attending students.
Drawing from a life rich in experiences, Gen. (R) Raheel Sharif elaborated on the triumvirate of values that have guided his path, “The three C’s: Character, Courage, and Competence.” His words echoed with sincerity as he emphasized, “Selecting a field close to your heart is important. Success only comes when there is passion and dedication in what line you chose.”
In his concluding remarks, Prof. Zaidi emphasized the twin objectives of conferring such a prestigious award upon esteemed alumni like Gen. (R) Raheel Sharif. Firstly, it serves as an acknowledgment of their remarkable achievements, a nod to their legacy that stands as a source of inspiration for generations to come. Secondly, and no less crucial, is the impact on the current students by showcasing the success stories of their predecessors, the institution instills a sense of pride, motivation, and aspiration among the young minds within its hallowed halls.
The roster of past recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award reads like a who’s who of luminaries who have illuminated the landscape of Pakistan with their accomplishments. Visionaries like Dr. Amjad Saqib, Dr. Arifa Syeda, Aitizaz Ahsan, Naeem Bukhari, Hadiqa Kiyani, and Shaqat Amanat Ali Khan have all been celebrated as shining examples of what it means to be a Ravian, leaving an indelible mark on the nation.
In conclusion, the conferral of the Lifetime Achievement Award upon General (R) Raheel Sharif stands as a testament to his extraordinary journey, marked by dedication, sacrifice, and service. The event reverberated with the collective pride of a nation that celebrates its heroes. As Gen. (R) Raheel Sharif’s words continue to resonate in the hearts of the young and ambitious; the legacy of this day serves as a lighthouse guiding the pursuit of excellence for all who tread the path of knowledge and aspiration.
