CAMBRIDGE: The Political Adviser of the Jang/Geo Group, Najam Sethi, was nominated Alumnus of 2011 by his old alma mater, Clare College, Cambridge, in a distinguished gathering here on Monday.

The trophy was awarded to him by the Master of Clare College, Dr Badger, who lauded Sethi’s services to the cause of a free media and progressive and moderate Pakistan. Clare College has also elected him an honorary Eric Lane Fellow of the college, a rare honour for any Pakistani. Also present on the occasion was Sir Nicholas Barrington, the former UK high commissioner to Pakistan, who is also an honorary fellow of the college.

In his widely applauded “inspirational” speech to the staff and undergraduates of Clare College, Sethi explained how his years as an undergraduate at Cambridge University from 1967-70 had changed his personality and outlook and impressed upon him the meaning, relevance and need of public service to his community and nation.

He said Pakistan is going through a critical existential moment in its political life as a nation and everything will depend on the hard choices of its ruling elites and the Army in the months to come. He urged the students to distinguish themselves in public service no less than in the professions they have chosen for themselves.

Dr Toby Wilkinson, Development Director and Fellow of Clare College, Cambridge, commented: “Najam Sethi is an inspiration to today’s generation of students at the University of Cambridge. His humanity, courage and conviction provide a powerful role model for young people, and demonstrate that it is possible for a determined individual to make a positive difference to society, even in challenging circumstances. He is a most worthy winner of the Clare College Alumnus of the Year Award, and the College is proud to number him among our many distinguished alumni.”
Source: The News
Date:2/16/2011