Graduation ceremony: Finishing school, harnessing skills for a brighter future

The 35th batch at PAF’s one-of-a-kind-school graduates.

ISLAMABAD:

Is the age-old wisdom imparted by finishing schools relevant in modern times, when women are competing with their male counterparts in various professional fields?

“Absolutely,” said Sana Aslam, one of the students at the 35th graduation ceremony of Pakistan Air Force Finishing School, held at the Air Headquarters here on Tuesday.

“As we move ahead into the digital age, there is a greater need to renew and refresh our basic life skills and etiquettes to meet the requirements of the modern world,” said Aslam, a student of dentistry at the Shifa International Hospital. Taking the 19-week extensive course has helped shape Aslam’s outlook on both her personal and professional life. “It makes you into a well-rounded individual”, she adds.



Meanwhile, Raafiya Sohail, another student, shared that she had a very unique and memorable experience. “We learnt so many things. I, for one, really enjoyed aerobics, yoga and cooking classes I’ve learnt to cook well,” she said. Sohail, who holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Punjab University, plans to pursue this discipline following the rigorous multi-disciplinary training course she attended at the school.

Among other things, she had the opportunity of visiting the Parliament House which, she said, may not have been possible otherwise. Poetry recitals and speeches were also delivered by students at the event.

The chief guest, Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt, who distributed certificates among the graduating students, said, “The dynamics of media, rapid dissemination of knowledge and instant means of communication have revolutionised our lifestyles. As members of a progressive nation, we have to remain in step with the march of time.”

He added that women have a vital role to play in the progress of any nation, and no society can afford to ignore women accounting for half of its population.

Earlier, a report highlighting the main aspects of the training, which help transform young girls into useful members of society was presented by Nasreen Aurangzeb.

Established in 1996, the school offers various courses in communication skills, languages, management, the art of self presentation, domestic science, general culture, cuisine, protocol, art, child care, introduction to psychology and spiritual enrichment. The first of its kind in Asia, this is a step by the PAF towards the promotion of education and literacy in the country.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 25^th, 2013.