Indus Kay Sitaray Celebrates the 10th Graduation Ceremony with Inspirational Young Warriors!

Tuesday, November 21, 2023:

Indus Kay Sitaray (IKS), the hospital-based school for pediatric patients at Indus Hospital, Korangi Campus, marked a significant milestone with its 10th graduation ceremony. The ceremony was held at the prestigious Salim Habib University. Over 30 students, dressed in striking blue and gold robes, received their certificates in a celebration that also commemorated the 5th anniversary of IKS.

The ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including Ms. Rana Hussain, the interim Minister of Education, in Sindh, as the Chief Guest, and Ms. Sadia Rashid, the President of Hamdard Foundation Pakistan, as the Guest of Honor. Ms. Nudrat Imam, Principal, Shahwilayat Public School; Ms. Faryal Kamran, Chief Executive Officer, the Faryal Kamran Initiatives; and Dr. Hussain Habib, Executive Director (Education, Marketing, Human Resource & Administration), Salim Habib University, were also present.

Also in attendance were senior leaders of Indus Hospital & Health Network, including Dr. Syed Zafar Zaidi, Chief Executive Officer, IHHN, Dr. Muhammad Shamvil Ashraf, Executive Director, Medical Services (IHHN) and Dr. Muhammad Fareeduddin, Chair, Pediatric Services (IHHN).

IKS caters to pediatric patients undergoing long-term treatments for cancer and blood diseases, chronic illnesses, and more. Many of these children and their caregivers travel from places as far as Afghanistan, seeking life-saving treatment and support. They find solace at Indus Hospital, Korangi Campus, which not only provides free healthcare but also offers free-of-cost accommodation, meals, and transportation for families facing financial constraints.

Indus Kay Sitaray (IKS) holds a graduation ceremony for its graduating batches twice a year to celebrate the success of its students.  This year IKS held its 10^th graduation ceremony to celebrate the success of IHHN’s pediatric oncology patients who have completed their studies in the hospital school over the past five years. The event helped inspire current pediatric patients to pursue their education and reach their full potential, regardless of any obstacles.

During the welcome speech, Dr. Muhammad Fareeduddin shared how IKS came into existence and expressed, “This graduation is very close to my heart, even more than my own graduation. Their resilience deserves a round of applause”. He also thanked Shahwilayat Public School’s management for sharing their curriculum and being such an integral part of IKS.  Sharing her inspiring story and addressing the families, teachers, and management of IHHN, the Interim Education Minister, Ms. Rana Hussain, expressed, “You are an inspiration for other children; you are Indus kay Jiyalay Sitaray and there is so much we can learn from your accomplishments.” She also commended the families and staff at IKS, praising their unwavering support and dedication in undertaking this profoundly rewarding journey alongside the children.

Taking the stage, Ms. Saadia Rashid, expressed, “Over the past five years, IKS has emerged as a beacon of hope for these courageous children, undeniably paving the way for a brighter future. I salute the unwavering determination of these children, as they have moved forward, demonstrating resilience and strength”.

During the ceremony, as each child took the stage to receive their certificate, they were cheered on by their teachers, families, dedicated hospital staff, current students and IKS alumni. The ceremony provided a sense of closure and accomplishment for the graduating students as they transitioned into the next chapter of their lives. It also served as a recognition of their hard work and dedication in the face of adversity.

During the event, Mr. Hussain Habib commended Indus Hospital & Health Network for its awe-inspiring impact and continuous efforts to uplift those in need throughout the country with the provision of free-of-cost, quality healthcare.

IKS plays a crucial role in ensuring IHHN’s pediatric patients continue their education despite prolonged hospital stays and health issues. Without IKS many children would fall behind in their studies, and struggle greatly to catch up with their peers, putting further stress upon their little minds and bodies which are already dealing with so much.

IKS goes beyond academics, providing a haven for these children to escape the stress of their health challenges and instilling in them a passion for learning and growth. It fosters a strong sense of community and support among alumni, current students, families, and staff of the hospital school, forming lasting bonds with the young learners.

Reflecting on how these children had made a profound impact on his journey on multiple fronts, Dr. Shamvil Ashraf said, “Allow me to share my chemotherapy journey with you. When I witnessed these children smiling during chemotherapy, I was astounded by their resilience. I drew inspiration from them which helped me immensely during my treatment.”

IKS’s 10^th graduation ceremony serves to recognize the valuable role of hospital schools in providing education to children with medical needs and to raise awareness about the importance of education for children suffering from cancer and other diseases. Indus Hospital & Health Network takes pride in the resilience of the 30 young graduates who, against all odds, have excelled in their studies, showcasing the indomitable spirit that defines Indus Kay Sitaray.

During his vote of thanks speech, Dr. Syed Zafar Zaidi expressed appreciation for the parents, and stated, “I would like to thank all of you, who understood the importance of their children’s education and are earnestly ensuring they continue to receive treatment and education both at Indus Hospital. I pray that these children can become who they aspire to be, may Allah grant them success, and may we at the Indus Hospital & Health Network continue to help even more people in this way.”