The celebrations for Pakistan Day at Lawrence College, Murree started with much
enthusiasm and zeal on the 23rd of March 2019. One of Pakistan's most prestigious educational
institutions, Lawrence College — known for its rich colonial-era heritage nestled in the Murree
hills — marked the occasion with a full programme of patriotic events, cultural performances
and a distinguished address by the Chief Guest.
Prof. Dr. Sayed Wiqar Ali Shah was invited as the Chief Guest
in honour of the event. He opened his address by noting that the day could be observed with
happiness and joy, but stressed that it was equally a time to reflect on the message
and purpose behind these celebrations — to rededicate ourselves to the cause of Pakistan
and to be grateful to Allah Almighty for the greatest blessing that is Pakistan.
"We need to face the challenges and contribute to nation-building by focusing on studies,
acquiring maximum knowledge and acquiring an excellent character."
— Prof. Dr. Sayed Wiqar Ali Shah · Lawrence College, Murree, 23 March 2019
Citing icons of peace across different nations and faiths — from the Frontier Gandhi
Abdul Ghaffar Khan to philanthropist Abdur Sattar Edhi,
from Mother Teresa to South Africa's Nelson Mandela — Prof. Shah
argued that true patriotism lay not in rhetoric but in service, compassion, and the commitment
to uplift fellow citizens regardless of origin or belief.
The concluding talk by Dr. Shah left the audience — predominantly students of Lawrence College —
with a new spirit of patriotism and optimism. His words resonated through the
historic halls of one of Pakistan's oldest institutions, reminding young Pakistanis that the
ideals behind the Pakistan Resolution of 23rd March 1940 remain as vital and urgent today as
they were over eight decades ago.
