On 22 November 2025 in Islamabad, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousuf attended Rafah International University’s annual ceremony as guest of honor and addressed the gathering at the Rafah convocation.
He warmly congratulated all graduating students, their parents and teachers, noting his confidence that these talented young people will raise living standards and play a meaningful role in the country’s development.
Sardar Yousuf stressed that in the era of globalization university programs must not remain confined to local issues and urged institutions to expand their academic horizons. He also applauded exchange initiatives, congratulating more than 100 Palestinian students who earned degrees through Pakistani universities under exchange programs.
Emphasizing that education and research are the pathways to progress and international influence, he said universities must prepare the younger generation to confront global challenges while placing equal importance on character building and moral values.
On human capital development, Sardar Yousuf underscored that professional skills must be paired with strong ethical foundations, and he acknowledged that the government alone cannot fulfill all higher education needs, calling on the private sector to take an effective role.
Highlighting demographic realities, he reminded the audience that 64% of Pakistan’s population is young and described today’s degree as the start of a new journey. He urged graduates to seek direction, confidence and opportunities to serve the nation and praised the parents and teachers whose sacrifices helped bring students to this milestone.
