Lahore (Web Desk): Professor Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman, Chairman Association of Private Sector Universities of Pakistan (APSUP), has called for collective efforts to move the country forward, saying Pakistan can achieve rapid progress by focusing on its future today and working with a clear sense of purpose and direction.
Addressing the APSUP Excellence Awards 2026 ceremony held at Governor House Lahore, he said that the nation must make a firm commitment to work together for Pakistan's development.
Professor Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman said meaningful progress could be achieved if the country began preparing for tomorrow through focused efforts today.
Referring to the life and achievements of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), he said a historic transformation was brought about despite limited resources.
He maintained that Pakistan could also make significant strides toward development if it identified a clear national objective and followed a defined direction.
The APSUP chairman said that efforts were being made to introduce the international community to Pakistan's real identity, stressing that Pakistanis are a hospitable and affectionate nation.
He said the country should be recognised for its positive qualities rather than being viewed through a limited or negative lens.
Professor Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman said that APSUP had been recognising national achievers through its Excellence Awards for several years.
He praised vice chancellors of Pakistani universities for their role in strengthening higher education institutions, raising their standing and enhancing Pakistan's reputation.
Professor Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman said that the nation was proud of these individuals and their contributions.
The APSUP chairman noted that this year's awards ceremony carried a different character from previous events, as entrepreneurs who had helped establish stronger connections between academia and industry were also being recognised.
He said that the honour was not merely a source of happiness for recipients but also placed an added responsibility on their shoulders to continue contributing to the country's progress.
Professor Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman described the youth as Pakistan's most valuable asset and stressed the importance of developing discipline, speed, confidence and an appreciation for the country's culture and traditions among young people.
Professor Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman said universities should not limit students' education to classrooms but should also connect them with industry to prepare them for practical challenges.
He added that universities flourish where industries grow, making stronger cooperation between the two sectors essential.
The APSUP chairman called for greater emphasis on research that responds to actual market requirements.
Expressing concern over Pakistan's longstanding challenges, he said society often looked toward the military, bureaucracy and government to address every problem.
Professor Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman asserted that young Pakistanis could take the country much further if they were provided with opportunities and the necessary support.
He said the country's youth needed exemplary role models and stressed that the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) was the greatest role model for them.
The APSUP chairman said that young people should be encouraged to understand that honesty, patience and hard work are essential ingredients for achieving success.
Professor Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman said Pakistanis frequently looked toward England, the United States and China, but it was now time to stop waiting for others and take the initiative themselves.
He called for collective efforts to establish the foundations of a strong, prosperous and developed Pakistan.
Professor Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman also announced that APSUP would organise the “See Pakistan” event at Expo Centre tomorrow (Saturday).
He said the event would feature some of the country's finest projects selected from across Pakistan, while international influencers with millions of followers had also been invited to attend.
The APSUP chairman added that the participation of these influencers would help highlight Pakistan's positive image internationally.
“Through the “See Pakistan” initiative, APSUP aims to show the world that Pakistan is a peaceful, loving and hospitable country and to present its positive side to international audiences,” Professor Dr Chaudhry Abdul Rehman asserted.