Founder’s Day Report – Govt. Queen Mary Graduate College – 116th Anniversary

Govt. Queen Mary Graduate College, established in 1908 as Victoria May Girls High School and renamed in 1911 in honor of Queen Mary, has grown from modest beginnings into a premier institution offering programs from primary to postgraduate levels. It stands as a symbol of academic excellence and progress, celebrating its rich legacy and ongoing contributions to education. The 117th Founder’s Day offered an opportunity to honor this history and envision the future.
The celebration began with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a soulful rendition of Naat Sharif, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere. Principal Prof. Dr. Sidra Aamir addressed the audience, highlighting the college’s achievements, ongoing projects, and aspirations. Her speech reflected her commitment to preserving the institution’s heritage and driving its continued growth.
Following the Principal’s address, a ceremonial cake-cutting took place, accompanied by a heartfelt rendition of the birthday song for Queen Mary by students from the Cambridge Section. The event symbolized the community’s unity and dedication to honoring the institution’s legacy.
Dr. Sidra Aamir has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at restoring and enhancing the college. Notable achievements in 2024 include:
• A rise in first-year admissions from 1,413 to 1,829 students, demonstrating growing confidence in the college’s offerings.
• The establishment of a marking center on campus by the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education Lahore, further strengthening academic infrastructure.
• The induction of 34 College Teaching Interns (CTIs) to expand and reinforce the faculty.
• Significant progress in restoring the historic building, including roof repairs and ongoing whitewashing efforts.
The 117th Founder’s Day celebration not only paid tribute to the college’s illustrious past but also served as a reminder of the collective effort required to build its future. Dr. Sidra Aamir’s vision and leadership continue to inspire the Queen Mary community, ensuring that the institution remains a beacon of excellence and progress for generations to come.