IIUI’s IRD and Pakistan Academy of Letters Forge Strategic Partnership to Promote Research and Literary Dialogue

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In a landmark initiative aimed at promoting collaborative research and strengthening literary and intellectual discourse in Pakistan, the Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD) at the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL)

The MoU was officially signed by Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed, President IIUI and Executive Director of IRD, and Prof. Dr. Najeeba Arif, Chairperson of the Pakistan Academy of Letters, during a formal ceremony held at new Campus of the university.

The partnership envisions joint efforts in organizing conferences, seminars, literary festivals, and research initiatives, with a special focus on building cultural understanding, interfaith dialogue, and the promotion of Pakistan’s rich literary heritage. Both institutions pledged to share resources and expertise to enhance intellectual exchange and develop collaborative projects that bridge academic and literary communities.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed emphasized the significance of the alliance, stating, “This MoU marks a step forward in enriching Pakistan’s intellectual landscape. By aligning the research strengths of IRD with the literary prowess of the Academy of Letters, we aim to initiate dialogues that resonate beyond academic circles and contribute meaningfully to society.”

Prof. Dr. Najeeba Arif also highlighted the importance of institutional collaboration. “Literature and research are not isolated pursuits,” she noted. “Together, we can create spaces where ideas flourish, traditions converse, and future scholars find inspiration.”

The agreement outlines a framework for mutual cooperation in publishing, translation of literary and academic works, capacity building of young scholars and writers, and joint efforts to highlight the legacy of great thinkers such as Allama Iqbal.

Lecture on “Iqbal and Today’s Youth” Inspires Students at Islamabad Model Postgraduate College of Commerce

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Lecture on “Iqbal and Today’s Youth” Inspires Students at Islamabad Model Postgraduate College of Commerce

A thought provoking lecture on “Iqbal and Today’s Youth” was held today at Islamabad Model Postgraduate College of Commerece, organized by the Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD) . The event witnessed an overwhelming response, with a large number of students and faculty members in attendance.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Talib Hussain Sial delivered an engaging and insightful talk focusing on Allama Iqbal’s concept of Khudi (selfhood). He emphasized the importance of self-awareness, inner strength, and ambition in shaping the character of today’s youth. Dr. Sial urged students to embrace Iqbal’s philosophy, develop a strong sense of purpose, and strive for excellence with the spirit of an eagle — a recurring symbol in Iqbal’s poetry that represents courage, vision, and freedom.

The Principal of the College Prof. Waqas Aziz praised the IRD for organizing such a meaningful and inspiring event, highlighting the relevance of Iqbal’s teachings in addressing the challenges faced by modern youth . He encouraged continued efforts to engage students in intellectual and philosophical discussions that contribute to their personal and academic growth.

The Additional Director of IRD Nasir Farid took the opportunity to thank the principal of the college for granting permission to hold the event. He also provided a brief overview of IRD’s mission and objectives, highlighting the organization’s commitment to promoting intellectual engagement among youth. He explained the purpose of the lecture series, which aims to reconnect students with the timeless ideas of national thinkers like Allama Iqbal.

The lecture concluded with an interactive Q&A session, allowing students to share their thoughts and ask questions, further deepening their understanding of Iqbal’s message.

Research Methodology Workshop Concludes at IRD  

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A 10-day research methodology workshop, organized by the Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD) in collaboration with the Faculty of Social Sciences and the Directorate of Graduate Studies (DGS), successfully concluded, equipping MS and PhD students with essential research skills.

Eighty scholars from various universities across Pakistan participated in the workshop, which covered topics such as SPSS and data analysis, research proposal writing, qualitative and quantitative research methods, research design, plagiarism prevention, and hypothesis formulation. Participants engaged in hands-on exercises, case studies, and interactive discussions, expressing satisfaction with the quality of instruction.

Renowned academics, including Prof. Dr. Amna Mahmood, Dr. Muhammad Babar, Dr. Rabia Ali, Dr. Qandil Abbas, Dr. Tauqir Hussain Sargana, Dr. Nazia Iqbal, Dr. Noreen Saher, and Dr. Kalimullah, led expert sessions and mentored students. Dr. Nazia Iqbal, on the final day, shared practical research insights to enhance participants’ methodologies.

The closing ceremony featured the Dean FSS, Dr. Manzoor Khan Afridi as the chief guest, who lauded the initiative and distributed certificates among participants. The workshop was widely appreciated for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical research application.

2-day Training Workshop on “Madrassa: Personal and Institutional Development”

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.IRD-IIUI 2-day Training Workshop on “Madrassa: Personal and Institutional Development” concluded

The Iqbal International Institute for Research & Dialogue (IRD) successfully conclude the 2-day educational and pedagogical Workshop on “Madrassa: Personal and Institutional Development.” The closing ceremony was held today at Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD). Mr. Nasir Farid, Additional Director-IRD apprised of the detail of the workshop. While addressing the participants in the closing ceremony Dr. Muhammad Akram, Director General, Shariah Academy, IIUI emphasized on inter-sect harmony and enhancing constructive role of religious institutions in the society. A group of 35 madrassa teachers of various sects hailed from twin cities were engaged for this workshop. The main objective was to enhance the constructive role of ulema in mainstream national life. The workshop aimed to provide the teachers with the modern knowledge, practical skills and new resources that they can use to provide the best education to their students based on Islamic principles. The workshop also aimed building leadership skills, developing respect for differences of opinion and sense of community among participants for the promotion of inter-sect harmony and enhancing constructive role of religious institutions in society.

On the first day of the workshop the resource person Mr. Sabookh Syed, Journalist/ Scholar, shed light on Intersect Harmony and Role of social media in Pakistan. Dr. Farid Barohi spoked to Madrassa Teachers to act as an Instructional Leader. After that a visit to “قومی رحمت اللعالمین و خاتم النبیین اتھارٹی” was also arranged where the Chairman Khurshid Ahmed Nadeem talked about the competencies required for an effective teacher. One the second day Dr. Ikramul Haq Yasin, Secretary, Council of Islamic Ideology stressed on role of Mosque, Mosque administration and Imam in promotion of social ethics. Dr. Muhammad Hussain, Scholar, talked about understanding diversity in thought and experience. In the closing ceremony certificate of participations were distributed among the participants

4TH MEETING OF IRD ADVISORY COMMITTEE HELD AT IIUI

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The 4th meeting of the Advisory Committee of the Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD) was held on Friday, January 10, 2025, in the Board Room of the Administration Block, International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI). The session was presided over by the Worthy President of IIUI, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed.

The meeting focused on designing a strategic roadmap in line with the Institute’s mandate and the University’s vision and mission. Discussions revolved around evaluating and approving the annual plans and activities of the Institute to ensure its growth and alignment with institutional goals.

President Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed emphasized the need to restore the distinctive character of the Institute. He encouraged innovative ideas and practical proposals to make the IRD fully functional and a hallmark of excellence in research and development.

The meeting was attended by the committee members, including Prof. Dr. Amna Mahmood, In-Charge (Female Campus), Dr. Qaiser Shahzad, Associate Professor, Faculty of Usuluddin Dr. Rabia Ali, Associate Professor, Faculty of Social Sciences, Dr. Hafiz Abid Masood, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Languages and Literature,  Dr. Muhammad Junaid Ghouri, Lecturer, Faculty of Social Sciences,  Mr. Nasir Farid, Additional Director (A&F), IRD and Dr. Maryam Siddiqa, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Social Sciences / Secretary of the Committee.