LAHORE: (Saturday, September 21, 2024): Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood has said that the promotion of research is necessary to solve the problems faced by the world. He expressed these views while addressing the first degree-awarding ceremony organized by PU Institute of Botany here on Saturday. On this occasion, PU Dean Faculty of Life Sciences Prof Dr Faheem Aftab, Director Institute of Botany Prof Dr Abdul Nasir Khalid, faculty members and students were present. In his address, PU VC Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood said that the Department of Botany established in PU is the oldest institution in Pakistan which has completed 100 years. He said that the graduates who graduated from the Department of Botany are shining the name of Pakistan and the institution all over the world. He said that all the people who tried to establish this institution 100 years ago deserve tribute and we should be grateful to them. He said that due to the high quality of education, it is commendable that the department of Botany is included in the global ranking. He said that as a scientist it is your responsibility to provide solutions to the challenges in the modern age. He congratulated the graduates, their teachers and parents. Prof Dr Abdul Nasir Khalid said that the 100 years of establishment of the PU Department of Botany and holding the first convocation is certainly a historic moment for us. He said that more than 150 students of PhD, MS, MPhil and BS Botany are being presented certificates in the convocation. He advised the students to apply the knowledge learned from the institution in the practical field and serve the nation. Prof Dr Faheem Aftab thanked PU VC Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood for his cooperation and appreciated the efforts of Dr Abdul Nasir Khalid and his team for the 100 years of the institution and organizing a beautiful ceremony. Later, the VC presented degrees to the successful students.