Maryam Nawaz’s Visit to University of Gujrat Draws Mixed Reactions from Students
By Muhammad Awais :
A visit by Maryam Nawaz to the University of Gujrat on Monday sparked mixed reactions from students, many of whom described the event as overly managed and lacking genuine interaction.
The ceremony was organised for more than 3,000 students from the Gujranwala Division, including Sialkot, Narowal and Gujrat, to distribute laptops and scholarships. However, several students said the chief minister departed without personally handing over awards to recipients.
According to sources, the entire event was supervised by the chief minister’s team, led by Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, while the university administration played only a limited role.
University officials were reportedly sidelined. Vice Chancellor Dr Zahoorul Haq was not allowed to deliver a welcome address, present a souvenir, or offer concluding remarks — roles typically performed by the host institution. Only the provincial education minister and the chief minister addressed the audience.
Despite being the host venue, multiple members of the university syndicate and prominent local figures were not invited, allegedly due to security concerns. Leaders of the Pakistan Muslim League (N) in the region also stayed away after learning that lawmakers from Pakistan Muslim League (Q) would attend.
University sources said dozens of suggested participants were removed from the guest list by the chief minister’s team following security vetting. The administration was only tasked with providing the venue and logistical arrangements.
During the programme, video clips related to former prime minister Imran Khan and past political controversies were shown on screens, apparently to counter opposition narratives. However, students reacted positively to Imran Khan’s appearance, forcing organisers to quickly remove the footage.
Several students criticised the event, calling it “staged” and suggesting that laptop and scholarship distribution should have been done through smaller, university-level ceremonies.
“Students who represent the future of the country deserve more respect than symbolic shows,” one student commented.
University spokesperson Dr Yousaf told The Express that the institution had no role in planning or guest selection.
“We were only responsible for hosting the event. The vice chancellor and registrar had no authority over the programme,” he said.
Security remained tight throughout the visit. The chief minister arrived by helicopter, stayed for around an hour, and left the same way. Instead of a traditional reception, the route from the helipad to the venue was decorated with floral arrangements.
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