Secondary school students from across the city gathered at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at U of T on Oct. 20 for the 24th Annual Quaid-e-Azam Awards Celebration. Named after the founder of Pakistan, the event recognizes the academic achievements of students of Pakistani heritage.
Some arrived decked in traditional Pakistani robes, while others sported jeans. The students came with their beaming parents, many with cameras slung around their necks. Many of these parents came to Canada as immigrants with hopes of a brighter future for their children. “It’s not about the trophy or the money,” explained Arshad Malik, whose daughter received an award in the Grade 10 category. “It’s about remembering your roots.” His daughter, Sophia, nodded in agreement. “To tell you the truth, I didn’t really want to come today…but it’s important to celebrate your achievements with your community.”
The awards were founded by the late S.M. Hasan Bukhari, a very active and respected member of the community, who was killed in a car accident in Toronto several months ago. This year’s program was organized by his wife, Dr. Nighat Hasan Bukhari, along with volunteers. Her daughter, Syedna Lizna Hasan Bukhari, proved a capable and charismatic hostess, her voice breaking for a fraction of a second as she introduced the photo tribute to her father.
“We have focussed on high-school students because this is a crucial time in which the essential study skills necessary to succeed in further education are developed,” said Ahmad Muinuddin, coordinator of the event. “Moreover, success in secondary education determines where one ends up afterwards.” Muinuddin said he intends to work with boards of education to promote the event and broaden eligibility requirements.
“We are a people of intellectual excellence,” said Haroon Siddiqui, editor emeritus at the Toronto Star and recepient of the Order of Canada, as he introduced the community service awards. “The first instruction the Prophet Muhammad received from God was to read.”
Siddiqui then went on to praise Canada as one of the most accommodating countries in the world and cautioned young adults never to use racism or discrimination as a crutch for their own shortcomings. “There is no dichotomy in being [Pakistani] Muslim and being Canadian,” he said.
Ghalib Iqbal, Consul General of Pakistan, echoed Siddiqui’s sentiments and encouraged this generation to work hand in hand with other Canadians toward the betterment of this country as a haven of peace.
The singing of the Canadian and Pakistani national anthems, as well as heartfelt readings of two traditional poems, stirred up feelings of nostalgia and pride. The serving of samosay (spicy patties), chai (tea), chips and pop also served as a subtle reminder of the peaceful collision of two cultures.
The ensuing ceremony resembled a commencement, with individuals called up and presented with certificates and trophies. Cameras clicked and proud parents clapped as their children shook hands with the guests of honour. Umar Jameel Khan, a first-year U of T student studying life sciences, earned top marks in the OAC category with a remarkable average of 96.5 per cent.
Raza Mohammad Naqvi nabbed second place with 95.8 per cent and Marium Ahmad claimed third place with an impressive 95.5 average. Asked to say a few words upon receiving the award, Khan advised students never to underrate the value of hard work. “It’s directly proportional to the success you will achieve,” he said. Quaid-e-Azam would have been proud.
