Addressing on the occasion, Dr Hasan Sohaib Murad said that from academia to sports, UMT graduates stand out from the crowd on account of their outstanding performance. While Misbah is undoubtedly a role model for the youth as someone who excelled in the sports arena while getting a good education as well, god willing, the future holds many UMTians like him who will prove their mettle in whichever field they choose.
Dr Hasan Sohaib Murad said that he is grateful to Misbah for fulfilling the promise that he had made quite some time ago regarding a visit to UMT. Dr Hasan said that Misbah has brought character and credibility to the game of cricket. He surprised everyone by sharing some of the information that Misbah had given about himself 12 years ago while filling the UMT admission form. Asked to state his strengths, Misbah wrote: honesty, punctuality, sincerity and patience. These were the very same qualities that made him a leader in later years. Dr Hasan concluded by saying that tonight it is homecoming for Misbah but UMT is welcoming one of its most distinguished alumni.
Delivering a well composed and structured speech, Mibah ul Haq said that the weakness of the education system and what it lacks is often the subject of discussions. He said that in his view, the difference between an educated person and an illiterate individual should illuminate the divergence between the two. He advised the students to build their character so that others emulate them and consider them their role models.
Recalling the time spent as UMT student, Misbah said that he learned a great deal from HSM faculty. Coming from a small town like Mianwali, he lacked confidence and presentation skills but the teachers at UMT helped him to overcome these weaknesses, groomed him professionally and instilled values that propelled him on the path of success.
Misbah said that it is a source of great honor and pride for him that UMT has invited him to the prize distribution ceremony of the Clash 20 Cricket Challenge Trophy. He said that UMT will always hold a special place in his heart and he had fond memories of the time that he had spent as a student here.
Dr Raiz Ahmed said that it is not easy playing cricket in hot and humid conditions and that is why one should salute the stamina and commitment of the players. He said that if anyone wants to be fit, he can be fit at any stage. He explained the concept of biomechanics in the fitness regime of ordinary people who may benefit from the same provided that they do not suffer from any ailment. He added that anyone contributing to the world of fitness deserves commendation and as such Rana Iftikhar Ahmad and his team should be saluted.
Earlier, Rana Iftikhar Ahmad, Director OPA, welcomed Misbah ul Haq to his alma mater. He also thanked the distinguished guests for gracing the occasion with their presence.
It may be noted that UMT organizes the Clash 20 Cricket Challenge Championship and invites top teams from educational institutions of Lahore to compete in the event. UMT cricket team bagged this year’s trophy after beating UET, Lahore, by 5 wickets, and is the current champion, winning the trophy for the second time in a row.
Besides UMT, other teams that participated in the tournament included FCC University, LUMS, UVAS, SKANS, COMSATS, National College of Arts, University of South Asia, UET, Lahore, FAST NU, University of Education, Beaconhouse National University, PAC, Rise School of Accountancy, and Quaid-e-Azam Law College.