A special ceremony in connection with National Minorities Day was held at Rawalpindi Women University in Rawalpindi today.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor of the University Professor Dr. Tayyaba Zarif, said students and employees belonging to minority communities are an integral and valued part of the country's educational institutions and society.

She said respecting the religious beliefs, places of worship and festivals of minority communities, and ensuring their freedom to practice their faith, is not merely a ceremonial obligation but an essential responsibility of a public university.

Professor Dr. Tayyaba Zarif further said that minority students and employees at Rawalpindi Women University are equal members of the university community and providing them with equal opportunities, respect and a dignified academic and professional environment remains among the institution's priorities.

On the occasion, cake was also cut during the ceremony as a gesture to express solidarity with the  minority communities.

Certificates were also distributed among students who secured prominent positions in poster designing and essay writing competitions organized in connection with National Minorities Day.