The 66th anniversary of the establishment of the world-renowned Russian institution, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN), was celebrated under the auspices of the Russian Centre for Science, Education and Culture in Lahore on Monday.
The ceremony was presided over by Pushkin Award recipient Dr. Najm-ul-Sahar Butt.
Former President of the University Union, Dr. Musaddiq Hussain, was the chief guest.
Among those who addressed the gathering were Chairman of the Russian Centre and the Association of Pakistani Graduates from Russia and CIS, Dr. Shahid Hasan; Prof. Dr. Ashraf Nizami; Dr. Shahid Latif; Engineer Jamal Anwar; Dr. Fahmeeda Jamal; Muhammad Asif; Comrade Shahid Ali; Dr. Iftikhar Bukhari; Dr. Rashid, and others.
The speakers praised the university’s unparalleled contributions in the fields of education, research, and science, stating that thousands of its alumni are currently serving in various countries around the world, utilizing their skills and providing distinguished services.
Dr. Najm-ul-Sahar Butt said that in the Soviet Union, basic education and healthcare facilities were free and of very high quality for all without discrimination. Teachers were compassionate and kind, and the friendly and sympathetic attitude toward foreigners has always been a hallmark of the Russian nation.
Dr. Musaddiq Hussain remarked that the university’s 66-year journey is of great significance. The institution not only educated them but also nurtured and trained them.
Dr. Ashraf Nizami said that the university gave its students the message: “O people, acquire knowledge and spread it throughout the world.”
Dr. Shahid Latif stated that after English and French literature, Russian possesses one of the largest and most significant bodies of literature in the world. The university has produced great educators, economists, intellectuals, and philosophers.
Engr. Jamal Anwar said that studying in Moscow was a pleasant experience. “If Pakistan is our motherland, then Russia is our fatherland, because it has given us so much.”
Dr. Fahmeeda Jamal said that the knowledge she acquired in Russia is still far ahead of what is available in Pakistan.
Dr. Rashid shared that he has many fond memories associated with the university in Russia.
Dr. Iftikhar Bukhari said that remembering one’s mother institution and paying tribute to its teachers in this manner is a commendable act.
Muhammad Asif said that I have very pleasant memories of RUDN University.
The days I spend there are still fresh and preserved in my mind.
Russian Ambassador for Science and Education in Pakistan, Dr. Shahid Hasan, reminisced about his days at the university, the life and environment there, and said that obtaining higher education and meeting important global personalities remain memorable parts of his life.
He thanked the participants of the ceremony.
At the conclusion of the event, a cake was cut to celebrate the 66th anniversary of the Russian university.
Other distinguished participants included Professor Iftikhar Rasool Sheikh, Farooq Malik, Madam Natasha Antalia, Honorary Consul of the Kyrgyz Republic in Lahore, Kashif Younis Mehr, Tayyab Kakar, Shahbaz Anwar Khan, Muhammad Maqsood, Abdul Mannan, Muhammad Ahmed, Basit Majeed, and others.