IRD Organizes Lecture on Allama Iqbal’s Concept of Knowledge

The Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD) organized an academic lecture titled “علامہ اقبال کی نظر میں علم کی اہمیت” at Madrassa Muhammadi Masjid, Shehzad Town, Islamabad. Mr. Nasir Farid, Additional Director IRD, introduced the Institute,

highlighting its academic, research, and peace-building initiatives, and noted that the lecture marked IRD’s first outreach event at a madrassa in line with the vision of the President, IIUI.

The keynote address by renowned scholar Dr. Talib Hussain Sial focused on Allama Iqbal’s concept of knowledge, emphasizing intellectual awakening, moral responsibility, and societal progress. Mr. Maulana Abdul Quddus Muhammadi appreciated IRD’s efforts, while active student participation reflected the lecture’s relevance and impact.

IRD Hosts Book Launch on Religious and Social Life of Baha’i and Parsi Communities of Pakistan

The Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD), International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), organized a book launch ceremony for its recent publication titled Religious and Social Life of Baha’i and Parsi Communities of Pakistan, authored by Dr. Abdul Fareed Brohi. The academic event was held under the patronage of Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed, President International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI).

Dr. Anis Ahmad, Vice Chancellor, Riphah International University Islamabad, graced the ceremony as Chief Guest. In his address, he appreciated IRD for its continued academic engagement and constructive research initiatives. He commended the author for selecting a sensitive and intellectually relevant topic and noted that in the contemporary multicultural and multireligious global environment, Islam advocates peaceful coexistence and guarantees the right of followers of other faiths to practice their religious beliefs and rituals.

Dr. Anis Ahmad categorically rejected the notion that Islam allows violence against non-Muslims and stated that negative propaganda against Islam and Pakistan lacks factual basis. He emphasized that Pakistan is a safe country for religious minorities and that they are not subjected to systematic injustice or victimization within society.

Earlier, Dr. Muhammad Akram, Director General, Shariah Academy IIUI, highlighted the scholarly value of the publication and termed it a significant contribution for both general readers and researchers. He stated that the book represents the first comprehensive academic study of its kind in Pakistan and adds meaningfully to national and international scholarship in the fields of interfaith studies and religious sociology.

Author of the book, Dr. Abdul Fareed Brohi, explained that the study presents an objective and analytical overview of the Baha’i and Parsi communities, tracing their historical origins to Iran and examining their religious practices, social structures, and methods of identity preservation. He shared that Baha’i communities are present in Karachi, Peshawar, and Islamabad and operate through an organized National Spiritual Assembly. He further emphasized that religious minorities in Pakistan enjoy constitutional protection and religious freedom, and that these communities maintain peaceful relations with the broader society.

Dr. Sohail bin Aziz, Director NRKNA, also addressed the gathering and appreciated the author’s effort in producing a well-researched work on an important and under-explored subject.

At the outset, Mr. Nasir Farid, Additional Director IRD, welcomed the Chief Guest, speakers, and participants, and briefed the audience about the mandate of IRD and the academic importance of the publication.

The ceremony concluded with the distribution of the book among participants, while commemorative shields were presented to the Chief Guest and distinguished speakers.

Study Circle on Research Skills Initiated at IRD

The Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD), in collaboration with Jamia Muhammadi Sharif, Chiniot, and the Faculty of Education, has initiated a Study Circle titled “Enhancing Research, Writing, and Presentation Skills.” The first session focused on foundational concepts of educational research based on John W. Creswell’s Research Design, highlighting research approaches, scholarly inquiry, and methodological alignment.

Facilitated by Dr. Fouzia Ajmal, the session emphasized collaborative learning, critical thinking, and academic writing skills. Additional Director IRD, Mr. Nasir Farid, noted that the initiative promotes collective inquiry and research-oriented thinking among faculty members and postgraduate scholars. The Study Circle will continue as a regular academic forum to strengthen research capacity at IIUI.

IRD Unveils New Publication on Dini Madaris

The Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD), IIUI, has released a new volume titled “دینی مدارس: انصاف اور نظام تعلیم” featuring research by Dr. Syed Aziz ur Rehman. The book, produced under the guidance of President IIUI, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed, explores key themes related to Pakistan’s dini madaris.

Additional Director IRD, Mr. Nasir Farid, presented a copy to the President IIUI.