University of Karachi Alumni Association of Washington and Baltimore Celebrates Silver Jubilee
By Zafar Iqbal, PhD
The University of Karachi Alumni Association (UKAA) of Washington and Baltimore recently celebrated its Silver Jubilee, marking 25 years of community building, cultural engagement, and educational advocacy. Founded by graduates of the University of Karachi living in the Greater Washington Metropolitan Area, UKAA has flourished into a vibrant organization that promotes academic collaboration, cultural exchange, and meaningful connections within the South Asian diaspora.
As part of its year-long celebrations, UKAA hosted a spirited family picnic on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Bohrer Park in Gaithersburg, Maryland. More than 150 alumni, friends, and families gathered under clear blue skies for an afternoon of reunion, joy, and shared memories in a scenic lakeside setting.
Laughter echoed through the park as children played, and old friends reconnected under shaded pavilions. The event’s seamless execution reflected the dedication of the organizing team, with special appreciation for Sayeeda Huque and Farida Vaid for their exemplary efforts.
Guests enjoyed a generous spread of Pakistani cuisine—including kabobs, chicken tikka, Hyderabadi daal, keema, and bagharay baingan—provided by UKAA and complemented by homemade dishes contributed by attendees. Chaunsa mango juice and other nostalgic refreshments added a festive touch.
The entertainment program captured the celebratory spirit, featuring live musical performances by Ali Lahooti, Zafar Syed, Nuzaira Azam, Asad Khan, and others. Dr Abdullah’s poetry moved the audience, while Aquil Ahmed’s riddles and prize games engaged participants of all ages.
Beyond celebration, the event underscored UKAA’s lasting impact on education. UKAA President Aquil Ahmed and Endowment Fund Chair Tariq Husain shared updates on the association’s initiatives, including over $200,000 in scholarships awarded to more than 1,000 students, a $300,000 renovation project at NED Engineering University, and donations of computers and lab equipment to various institutions.
A key ongoing project is a STEM education initiative in collaboration with NED University. Phase I has already trained 60 teachers, while Phase II aims to reach 100 more educators, representing a $30,000 investment in strengthening science and technology education in Pakistan.
UKAA also remains committed to building bridges with local cultural and educational groups, including the Aligarh Alumni Association of Washington, DC (AAA-DC), and the Global Beat Foundation (GBF), thereby expanding its reach and fostering inter-community collaboration.
As the day drew to a close, the gathering stood as a testament to shared heritage, community service, and enduring fellowship. The Silver Jubilee picnic not only celebrated UKAA’s 25-year journey but also reaffirmed its commitment to shaping a brighter future for students and communities both locally and abroad.
The author gratefully acknowledges Aquil Ahmed for his valuable input in drafting the report and Nuzaira Azam for graciously providing the photographs.
