Students from medical, dental, and nursing colleges across the country have used their creative talents to honor the sacrifices of the Pakistan Armed Forces, culminating in a final awards ceremony for the NUMS Creative Art Competition held at the university. The contest, themed “Marka-e-Haq,” provided a platform for young learners to channel their patriotism into art, reflecting on themes of national unity, defense, and resilience against terrorism.
The inter-college creative contest was initiated on 30 May 2025 by the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) for its constituent and affiliated institutions. A total of 111 entries were received by the 30 June 2025 deadline, with a jury shortlisting 56 pieces for final consideration. The artworks explored a range of profound subjects including Peace Advocacy, Digital Warfare, Water Terrorism, and the emotional resolve against adversaries.
To maintain fairness and impartiality, the shortlisted creations were assessed by an independent panel of external judges. The evaluation was conducted anonymously, with no information revealed about the participants” identities or their institutional affiliations, ensuring the focus remained solely on the artistic merit and thematic interpretation.
The final ceremony was held on 29 August 2025 at the NUMS Institute of Advance Studies and Research (NIASR). Lt Gen Arshad Nasim, HI(M), Surgeon General / DGMS (IS), attended the event as the Chief Guest. The proceedings commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the National Anthem of Pakistan.
Following the formal opening, the Surgeon General, accompanied by university leadership, toured the Art Gallery where the 56 shortlisted paintings were on display for attendees.
In his welcome address, NUMS Vice Chancellor Lt Gen Wasim Alamgir, HI(M), (Retired), remarked that the Chief Guest”s presence was both an inspiration and a source of pride. He stated, ‘This event is more than an artistic display. It is a heartfelt tribute to the courage and sacrifice of our soldiers. Our students, through their creativity, have shown that patriotism also lives in the hearts and expressions of our youth.’ He added that NUMS is proud to foster national spirit alongside academic excellence.
Addressing the audience, the Surgeon General expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and stated he was deeply inspired by the event. He noted that the students demonstrated that patriotism can be conveyed not just on the battlefield but also through art and reflection. ‘Each painting and calligraphic piece was more than an artwork; it was a heartfelt tribute to the courage and sacrifice of our Armed Forces,’ he commented, emphasizing that Marka-e-Haq symbolizes the nation”s unity and determination.
The Chief Guest commended the university”s leadership for providing students with a platform to connect with their history. Addressing the participants directly, he said, ‘Your talent is remarkable, but it is your sense of purpose that truly makes it meaningful. Let patriotism remain your compass in whichever path you choose.’ He expressed his faith that the legacy of Marka-e-Haq is in capable hands.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of awards to the top three position holders. Qurat Ul Ain Mehmod, a 7th-semester Psychology student at NUMS, secured first place. The second position was awarded to Rida Irfan, a third-year MBBS student at Army Medical College, while Laraib Siddique, a final-year MBBS student at Wah Medical College, earned third place. The occasion was commemorated with a group photograph of the winners with the Chief Guest.