Punjab University Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Muhammad Ali has stressed that to achieve national peace and security, citizens of all faiths must actively participate in each other’s sorrows and joys, declaring that “we are all one”.
The Vice Chancellor expressed these views at a Christmas cake-cutting ceremony at the Faisal Auditorium on Tuesday. The event, organized by the Punjab University Administrative and Technical Staff Association in collaboration with Christian employees, was attended by a large number of university staff and distinguished guests.
Prominent participants included Kinnaird College Principal Professor Dr. Iram Anjum, Registrar Dr. Ahmad Islam, Senior Pastor Anwar Fazal, and Employees Association President Chaudhry Basharat Mahmood.
In his address, Professor Dr. Muhammad Ali extended warm Christmas and New Year greetings to the Christian staff and reiterated that the university community stands with them in their celebrations. He acknowledged the “immense services of the Christian community for Pakistan” and repeated that people of all faiths have equal rights in the country.
Senior Pastor Anwar Fazal urged the attendees to embrace the message of love, peace, and brotherhood taught by Jesus Christ. He said that in the modern era, people tend to exploit each other’s weaknesses, a problem he believes can be addressed by following the teachings of our forefathers.
Dr. Iram Anjum praised the Vice Chancellor’s leadership, stating that all individuals should perform their duties diligently to “shine like stars on earth.”
Chaudhry Basharat Mahmood extended his festive greetings to the Christian employees and thanked the Vice Chancellor for his key support in making the event possible.
The ceremony concluded with Professor Dr. Muhammad Ali cutting the traditional Christmas cake along with other dignitaries.