LAHORE (October 21, 2026) — The University of the Punjab, in collaboration with the Higher Education Department (HED) Punjab and Tech Valley Pakistan, successfully organized the Google Career Certificates (GCC) Orientation and Outreach Session today at its campus. The event aimed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands by providing students with hands-on access to globally recognized IT and digital certifications.

The session saw enthusiastic participation from students across various departments, who were guided through 13 specialized certification tracks—including Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Project Management, and User Experience (UX) Design. The event featured on-the-spot course enrollment, enabling students to immediately access their Coursera invitations and begin their learning pathways.

Addressing the ceremony, Mr. Naveed Hassan (Director, Higher Education Department Punjab) emphasized that this province-wide program is a landmark initiative by the Government of Punjab, launched under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Minister for Education Rana Sikandar Hayat, to empower youth with modern technical expertise.

Dr. Asim Tanvir, while addressing the students, stressed that alongside a traditional university degree, obtaining specialized professional certifications is vital. He highlighted that these additional skill sets are highly sought after, valued, and mandatory by top employers in today's competitive job market. He urged students to take full advantage of this opportunity to enhance their career readiness.

Ms. Madiha Hussain Mongol (Program Manager, Tech Valley Google) delivered an inspiring presentation, strongly motivating students to enroll in and complete these certifications, calling them an essential need of the hour for modern professional growth.

During the event, Dr. Asim Tanvir presented official departmental souvenirs to the visiting delegation. On behalf of the University, Mr. Mujtaba Ali Gondal (Deputy Director/ Focal Person) presented official PU gift bags and diaries to the guests as a token of respect and appreciation.

The program concluded with a shared resolve to boost digital literacy and technical capabilities across the province.