The Hiking and Mountaineering Club (HMC) of Government College University (GCU), Lahore, celebrated World Mountain Day on Tuesday with a pledge to uphold the values of conservation and adventure.

The event's chief guest was Colonel (r) Sajid Basir Sheikh, a distinguished alumnus and former president of the Hiking and Mountaineering Club during 1961-62.

GCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali also graced the occasion, emphasizing the importance of extracurricular activities in student life.

The HMC is one of the oldest student clubs at GCU Lahore, established to guide and train students to embrace challenges and adventures while exploring and appreciating the wonders of nature.

The ceremony commenced with musical performances and the cutting of a World Mountain Day cake by Colonel (e) Sajid Basir Sheikh and the club’s advisor, Syed Yasir Usman.

Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali said GCU is renowned not only for academic excellence but also for fostering well-rounded personalities through extracurricular opportunities. “Activities like hiking and mountaineering enhance students’ physical and mental capacities," he said.

The event concluded with the national anthem and a pledge to protect the environment, leaving participants inspired to uphold the values of conservation and adventure.