According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, speaking at the convocation ceremony of Sukkur IBA University, Chairman PPP said, “It is a matter of pride for me that this institution was established by my mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, during her second tenure as Prime Minister. The seed planted by her has now grown into a tree, earning recognition not only nationally but also globally.” He highlighted that students from across Pakistan and even international students from countries like Sri Lanka are receiving education at the university.
Discussing the role of students in addressing national challenges and enhancing Pakistan’s global image, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said, “Students must utilize their knowledge for Pakistan’s development. Today, we face challenges such as poverty, economic inequality, and climate change.” He added, “It is the government’s duty to control various aspects of governance, but when it attempts to overstep and control individuals or institutions, it is up to the youth to resist these efforts and assert their rights.”
He reminded the audience that every generation has fought for its rights. “Democracy wasn’t handed to us as a gift; it was achieved through struggle. Generations of youth, using their education, voices, and skills, have defeated oppressors time and again. From the colonial era to today, the youth have been at the forefront.”
Chairman PPP expressed concern about the current state of the digital space in Pakistan. He called upon the youth to engage in peaceful and democratic struggles for their digital rights. He criticized the outdated understanding of technology by decision-makers in Islamabad, stating, “How can bureaucrats in their 60s, who still use old Nokia phones, comprehend the rights of the digital generation? How would they understand WhatsApp, Netflix, or gaming? We must claim our rights from them.” He further noted the irony of how two young Pakistanis from Lahore were among the pioneers in creating the world’s first computer virus, showcasing the capabilities of Pakistani youth.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari stressed the need for better internet access and data privacy protections for the younger generation. He announced plans to visit educational institutions across the country, including Sindh, to gather student feedback on proposed digital rights legislation. “Tag me on social media and share your suggestions,” he urged the youth, committing to raising awareness on the issue.
Addressing climate change, he warned of severe consequences if its impact is not mitigated. “Pakistan risks devastating floods and infrastructure collapse if we fail to address climate change,” he stated. He criticized both bureaucrats and senior politicians for their lack of understanding of such crucial issues, focusing only on budgets and public sector development programs.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari lamented the absence of proper planning to combat climate change in the federal budget. He pointed out that Pakistan is among the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change. He urged developed nations to take responsibility, stating, “The industrialization and capitalism of these countries have caused the climate crisis. While they amassed wealth, they ignored the damage inflicted on the rest of the world. Now, when others seek their fair share, they lecture us about climate change limitations. If these countries profited from industrialization, others also have a right to that wealth.” He concluded, “We’re not asking for personal compensation but for funds to repair the damage they have caused.”
Chairman extended his best wishes to the graduating students, urging them to contribute to national progress through the power of education. He praised the Sindh government’s achievements in health and education, highlighting how students from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Punjab, and even Sri Lanka come to Sindh for quality education at institutions like IBA Sukkur, just as patients from across Pakistan seek treatment at Sindh’s hospitals.
During the event, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari distributed medals and certificates to students, accompanied by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.