The Fatima Jinnah Medical University hosted a special ceremony on Wednesday to mark Independence Day.
According to a press release, Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir graced the occasion as chief guest. Fatima Jinnah Medical University Vice Chancellor Prof Khalid Masood Gondal welcomed the distinguished guest.
The ceremony began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by flag hoisting, planting a sapling and cake cutting. The Vice-Chancellor offered special prayers for progress and prosperity.
The health minister shed light on the importance of independence, saying independence was achieved after many sacrifices.
He urged the medics to continue contributing to the progress and prosperity of the country. He added: "We are blessed to live our lives as free citizens, share your love and contribute to the service of this country and nation by expressing unity.
"We should think about what we have given to our country and what we can give. Today, we start a new journey with new thinking and hope that Pakistan will flourish." Dr Gondal said freedom is undoubtedly a great blessing. He paid tribute to soldiers and prayed for the Kashmiris struggling for their right to self-determination.
He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the minister for the visit and requested the inauguration of the swimming pool and gymnasium of the hostel and the establishment of a new auditorium at Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore. The students of Fatima Jinnah Medical University presented national songs as a token of love and devotion to the country.
Principal Prof Abdul Hameed, Chairperson Medicine/Dean Undergraduate/Director Medical Education/Director Quality Enhancement Cell Prof Bilquis Shabbir, Prof Aisha Malik, Prof Aliya Zahid, Syed Farrukh Ali Shah, Former VC Prof Shamsa Humayun, Prof Noreen Akmal, Prof Munazza Iqbal, Prof Muniza Qayyum, Medical Superintendent Prof Hafiz Moin Ud Din, faculty members, and a large number of students attended the event.
The health minister with the VC also inaugurated Cochlear Implantation at Fatima Jinnah Medical University/ Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Lahore. This work was carried out under the supervision of Prof. Muhammad Irshad (Consultant, ENT Surgeon) with a multidisciplinary team. A cochlear implant is an electronic device that helps to improve hearing. This device helps provide a sense of sound to a person who is unable to hear or has extreme difficulty hearing.