ISLAMABAD: The Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) hosted its Education Expo 2025, attracting people from diverse backgrounds, including students and teachers.

The event aimed to introduce younger generations to educational, professional,andtechnicaladvancement opportunities, says a press release issued by AIOU.

Various universities from across the country, and industrial, commercial and research organisations set up informative stalls at the event. These stalls provided students with valuable information regarding career guidance, modern technology, skills development, and educational opportunities. The event was organised by the university`s ORIC (Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization).

At the opening of the event, the university`s Vice Chancellor Dr Nasir Mehmood, along with Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences Prof Dr Abdul Aziz Sahir, Dean of the Faculty of Sciences Prof Dr SherMohammad, Registrar Raja Umar Younis, Director Administration and Coordination Prof. Dr. Syed Aamir Shah, Additional Director ORIC Dr Saima Nasir, and other senior officials, visited all the stalls.

Speaking at the event, AIOUVice Chancellor Dr Mahmood expressed immense pride in his university`s team, espe cially Additional Director ORIC Dr. Saima Nasir, for their tireless dedication and passion. He said that it was because of her leadership and efforts that they successfully held the education expo for the second consecutive year.

To enhance student engagement, a lucky draw was also organised during the event, in which the vice chancellor himself participated by personally purchasing a 100 rupees ticket.

His gesture was warmly appreciatedby the attendees.

Later, as part of the `Green Pakistan Campaign,` the VC planted a tree in the university`s grounds, reaffirming the commitment to environment al improvement.According to the press release, students described the expo as informative, inspiring, and careerenriching. They said events like these not only help define their academic direction but also polish their creative abilities.

CEO Centaurus Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, who was chief guest at the closing ceremony, while appreciating the capabilities of the youth stated: `Our young people have immense potential they only need proper guidance and suitable opportunities to turn their dreams into reality.

He said and appreciated students` startups and business ideas and emphasised that the future of Pakistan lies in the hands of its youth.

In conclusion, the VC urged the youth to avoid shortcuts and to make innovation, hard work, and self-confidence their guiding principles alongside education. He encouraged them to turn their ideas into reality and contribute to the country`s progress. Staff Reporter