Karachi — Habib University proudly hosted its 8th Convocation Ceremony on June 1, 2025, at the Pearl Continental Hotel (The Marquee), celebrating the academic achievements and transformative journeys of the Class of 2025. This milestone event honored the resilience, intellect, and creativity of 237 graduates shaped by the
university’s distinctive liberal arts and sciences education.
This year’s convocation highlighted the power of a reparative curriculum rooted in Yohsin—the philosophy of thoughtful self-cultivation. The ceremony was attended by distinguished faculty, proud families, and prominent members of the academic and civic community.
Iman Ashraf, Class Valedictorian from the Comparative Humanities program, reflected on the collective journey of the graduating class: “We’ve learned to unlearn, to question, to be resilient. And in that journey, it’s natural—human even—to be tempted by self-interest. But if we truly long for the world we wish we had been born into, then words must become actions. Phrases like ‘reparative futures,’ ‘thoughtful self-cultivation,’ and even Yohsin—they remain just words unless we embody them through amal, through meaningful action. So, as we set our sights on future goals, let us also carve out space—not just to give back, but to give forward.”
In a powerful address, Habib University President Wasif Rizvi challenged conventional notions of progress:
“What we often call progress is merely a more efficient form of cruelty. Behind the polished façade of modernity—celebrated by a multi-trillion-dollar PR machine—lies a 500-year campaign of relentless extraction: of resources, bodies, and meaning.
And yet, here you are—Class of 2025. You do not arrive at the gates of this world in ignorance. You were formed at Habib University—a rare sanctuary in today’s world.
A space that refuses to sell your mind for utility or your soul for credentials. Instead, it opened a portal. That portal is Yohsin—a philosophy, a practice, a way of being that calls you to live with beauty, passion, and purpose.”
President Wasif Rizvi also highlighted the university’s unwavering commitment to accessibility and equity in higher education, noting that 83% of the Class of 2025 received financial support during their academic journey. He expressed deep gratitude to the Mohsineen—Habib University’s esteemed donor community—whose
generosity and belief in the power of education have made these transformative opportunities possible.
Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, world-renowned economist and Chairperson of the Pakistan Stock Exchange, delivered the commencement address. She encouraged graduates to embrace ambition with humility: “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude. So, think high. What you get by achieving goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.”
Mr. Rafiq M. Habib, Chancellor of Habib University, praised the graduating class: “You are what makes Habib University. Your enthusiasm, curiosity, and strong bonds define the spirit of this institution. As you leave, you are equipped with the finest undergraduate education in Pakistan, ready for whatever path you choose.”
As the Class of 2025 steps into the world, they carry forward the spirit of inquiry, compassion, and purpose that defines the Habib experience. The university community extends its heartfelt congratulations to the graduates and looks forward to their continued impact as changemakers and thought leaders.
