Bhutto receives UCLA Medal
Prime minister speaks about Pakistan’s education system, women’s
advances
By Rashmi Nijagal
Daily Bruin Staff
Benazir Bhutto, the prime minister of Pakistan, visited UCLA
yesterday to receive the UCLA Medal from Chancellor Charles Young
and his wife, Sue Young.
The medal, which is presented to recognize cultural, political
and humanitarian achievements, has been presented annually since
1979. Among last year’s recipients were President Bill Clinton and
composer Henry Mancini.
At the presentation, held in the chancellor’s university
residence, Young praised Bhutto for her commitment to education and
social advances for women.
"Her government has taken unprecedented measures to provide
opportunities for women," Young said. "UCLA stands with (her) in
its commitment to providing opportunities for those who deserve
it."
After receiving the medal, Bhutto delivered a brief speech in
which she spoke about the progress Pakistan has made in providing
opportunities for its people.
"I am happy that I can talk about my country’s emphasis on
education," Bhutto said. "So far, we have built 7,000 schools and
an additional 10,000 are under construction. No nation can progress
without a strong technical base and we wish to strengthen our own
educational base."
In addition to focusing on the educational advances that have
been made, Bhutto also spoke about the increasing opportunities for
women in her country. Stating that she is "not only a mother (and)
a housewife, but a working mother" as well, Bhutto stressed the
importance of working women in society.
"Her speech was extremely positive for women," said Victoria
Samson, a third-year political science and international relations
student. "There is a stereotype that women aren’t as respected in
Islamic countries but this speech showed that is not true. This was
very nice to see."
Guests were impressed by Bhutto’s speech and her commitment to
social advances.
"What a challenge it must be for her to provide leadership in a
country where there are so many conflicting forces," said James
Lubben, an associate professor in the School of Public Policy and
Social Research.
"I was struck by the importance that she placed on education and
I wish her all the success."