In a rare and meaningful interaction between Pakistan’s military leadership and the academic community, Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry paid an official visit to King Edward Medical University (KEMU) in Lahore on July 24, 2025. The visit was not only symbolic of growing civil-military engagement but also a significant effort to build bridges of understanding between Pakistan’s youth and its armed forces.
A Warm Welcome at One of Pakistan’s Oldest Medical Institutions
Established in 1860, King Edward Medical University holds a prestigious position in South Asia for its contributions to healthcare and medical education. The university’s leadership, faculty, and students extended a warm welcome to DG ISPR upon his arrival. His visit was marked by a ceremonial reception, followed by a keynote address in the university’s main auditorium.
The atmosphere was charged with curiosity and enthusiasm as hundreds of medical students gathered to listen to a military leader known for his composed demeanor and strategic thinking. The event served as a rare opportunity for students to engage with one of the top military officials of the country.
Addressing the Youth: Patriotism, Progress, and Purpose
In his address, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif focused on three core themes: patriotism, national progress, and the role of youth in building a resilient Pakistan. He began by acknowledging the hard work and dedication of the medical students and faculty, praising them for their essential role in improving the nation’s health infrastructure.
He then turned his attention to the broader challenges facing Pakistan, particularly security and regional dynamics. Highlighting the Pakistan Army’s continuous efforts in counter-terrorism, disaster relief, and peacekeeping operations, he reminded the audience of the sacrifices made by the armed forces in pursuit of national stability and security.
Kashmir and National Sovereignty
One of the most powerful moments of the speech came when the DG ISPR reaffirmed Pakistan’s unshakable stance on Indian-Occupied Kashmir, calling it “the jugular vein of Pakistan.” He emphasized that the country will continue to support the Kashmiri people diplomatically and morally, as per UN resolutions.
He also stressed the importance of unity in the face of hybrid warfare and disinformation campaigns that seek to divide the nation. “Today’s battles are not only fought with weapons but with narratives,” he said, urging students to remain informed, critical thinkers in an age of digital misinformation.
Acknowledging the Role of Education in Nation-Building
Throughout his talk, General Sharif repeatedly underlined the importance of education, research, and critical thinking. He encouraged students not just to pursue personal success but to work toward a collective national vision. “Doctors, engineers, and scientists are as essential to national defense as soldiers on the frontlines,” he stated.
He also expressed hope that future collaborations between institutions like KEMU and the armed forces could help address public health challenges, especially in disaster-stricken or underdeveloped areas of Pakistan.
Question & Answer Session: A Two-Way Conversation
What made the event particularly engaging was the open Q&A session that followed the speech. Students posed questions on topics ranging from civil-military relations, foreign policy, media narratives, and the role of women in the armed forces.
General Sharif responded candidly, maintaining a tone that was both humble and inspiring. He spoke about ongoing efforts to promote transparency in military communication, the evolving nature of regional alliances, and the increasing opportunities for young Pakistanis to contribute through various national service avenues.
Student Reactions: A Sense of Motivation
The event was met with overwhelming positivity from both faculty and students. Many described the session as eye-opening and motivational. “It’s rare to see such a high-ranking official engage directly with students,” said a final-year MBBS student. “His words were not just patriotic but also practical, and I feel more connected to the larger national narrative.”
The Vice-Chancellor of KEMU praised the DG ISPR’s visit as “a much-needed initiative to foster mutual understanding between two vital sectors of the country.”
A Model for Future Engagements
The DG ISPR’s visit to King Edward Medical University may be seen as part of a broader strategy to connect with Pakistan’s youth, particularly those in influential professions like medicine, engineering, and academia. It reflects an evolving understanding within the military that public perception and civil engagement are essential components of national security.
This visit sends a strong message: that Pakistan’s future rests not just on military strength, but on the intellectual and moral strength of its youth. By engaging with students directly, the military is demonstrating a commitment to inclusive dialogue, national cohesion, and long-term progress.
Reference: ڈی جی آئی ایس پی آر کا کنگ ایڈورڈ میڈیکل یونیورسٹی کا دورہ،طلبہ سے خطاب بھی کیا
