LAHORE: (Tuesday, July 21, 2026): Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali said that pharmacists play a pivotal role in strengthening the healthcare system by ensuring the safe and effective use of medicines, promoting public health and contributing to pharmaceutical research and innovation. He was addressing PU College of Pharmacy’s 12th Degree Awarding Ceremony here on Tuesday. On this occasion, PU Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Mahmood Saleem, Dean Faculty of Pharmacy Prof Dr Hamid Saeed, Registrar Dr Ahmad Islam, Principal College of Pharmacy Prof Dr Nasir Abbas, convener Prof Dr Furqan Hashmi, faculty members, graduates, parents and a large number of distinguished guests attended the ceremony. Addressing the ceremony, PU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Ali congratulated the graduating students and their parents on the successful completion of an important milestone in their academic careers. He said that PU has always remained committed to producing competent professionals equipped with knowledge, professional skills and ethical values. He urged the graduates to uphold the highest standards of integrity, compassion and professionalism while serving society. He emphasized that continuous learning, research and innovation are essential for addressing emerging healthcare challenges and improving the quality of life of people. He advised the graduates to utilize their knowledge for the welfare of humanity and contribute towards the socio-economic development of Pakistan through quality healthcare services and scientific research. Prof Dr Hamid Saeed said that PU College of Pharmacy is among the top pharmacy institutions in the world. He said that students from different countries come to study at the PU College of Pharmacy. He said that there are a number of demands for our graduates in the market. As many as 183 students were awarded the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm-D) degree, while 45 scholars received MPhil Pharmacy degrees. The College also conferred four gold medals upon outstanding MPhil graduates and three gold medals upon exceptional Pharm-D graduates in recognition of their remarkable academic performance.