IRD and Jamia Muhammadi Sharif Organize Lecture on Cultural Dimensions of Ramadan

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Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD), in collaboration with Jamia Muhammadi Sharif, organized an extension lecture on “Cultural Aspects of Ramadan” at the Allama Iqbal Auditorium, Old Campus, International Islamic University Islamabad. The session featured a keynote address by Khurshid Ahmed Nadeem, Chairman of the National Rahmatul lil Aalameen Wa Khatamun Nabiyyin Authority (NRKNA), who provided an in-depth exploration of the spiritual, cultural, and social significance of Ramadan.

In his address, Mr. Nadeem emphasized that acts of worship, including fasting and prayers, must be performed with sincerity for the pleasure of Allah. He highlighted the importance of gratitude, self-discipline, moral purification, and heightened spiritual awareness during the sacred month. He further noted that when individual acts of worship are practiced collectively and consistently, they gradually shape a shared cultural ethos, while stressing the need to preserve the sacred essence of worship to prevent ritualistic culture from overshadowing spirituality.

Mr. Nadeem elaborated that genuine gratitude is expressed through adherence to the exemplary life and teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and collective righteous conduct contributes to the moral and spiritual development of society. Earlier, Mr. Nasir Farid, Additional Director IRD, welcomed the keynote speaker, faculty members, and participants, outlining the objectives and significance of the lecture, and highlighting Ramadan as a month of sacrifice, patience, and compassion.

Sahibzada Muhammad Qamar ul Haq, President of Jamia Muhammadi Sharif, Chiniot, expressed appreciation to the keynote speaker for his insightful discourse and acknowledged the efforts of the organizers and participants. The event concluded with the presentation of a commemorative souvenir to the keynote speaker, alongside the distribution of IRD publications among attendees.

The lecture Offered participants an opportunity to reflect on the integration of spiritual practice with cultural consciousness, reinforcing the broader educational and research objectives of IRD in promoting scholarly engagement with Islamic traditions.

Second Session of Study Circle on Research Skills Held at IIUI Islamabad

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The second session of the Study Circle on Research Skills was held at IIUI’s IRD Conference Room under a collaborative initiative with Iqbal International Institute for Research & Dialogue (IRD), Jamia Muhammadi Sharif, Chiniot, and the Faculty of Education, IIUI. Focusing on mixed methods research from John W. Creswell’s Research Design, the session engaged MS and PhD students along with faculty in interactive discussions and practical exercises to enhance research skills. Participants also received IRD publications to support their ongoing studies.

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IRD Publication Corner Established at Radio Pakistan Islamabad

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An IRD Publication Corner has been established at the studio of Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation, Radio Pakistan Islamabad, in collaboration with the Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD). The publication corner was formally inaugurated by Director General Radio Pakistan, Saeed Ahmed Sheikh.


Speaking on the occasion, Director General Radio Pakistan Saeed Ahmed Sheikh said that the publication corner would serve as a valuable academic resource for anchors and announcers, helping them deliver authentic and reliable information to listeners. He emphasized that connecting the younger generation with the thought of Allama Muhammad Iqbal is an important national need so that youth may play a constructive role in the country’s development. He further stated that dialogue remains the most effective means to eliminate misunderstandings and promote peace, stability, tolerance, and harmony in society. In this context, he appreciated the academic and intellectual contributions of IRD.


The inauguration ceremony was attended by Director Programs Radio Pakistan, Masarrat Shah Rukh, Station Director Radio Pakistan Islamabad, Imran Javed, and Program Manager Farhana Barlas.


Director Programs Radio Pakistan Masarrat Shah Rukh thanked IRD and stated that Radio Pakistan is planning to launch a regular program featuring book reviews to revive the public’s connection with reading. She shared that the program will begin with weekly reviews of books published by IRD.


Additional Director IRD, Nasir Farid, highlighted the objectives of the institute and said that IRD is actively working for the promotion of peace, tolerance, and interfaith harmony through research publications and academic initiatives. He added that the IRD Publication Corner initiative will be expanded to madaris, colleges, universities, media houses, and studios to ensure wider outreach through the media.


Station Director Radio Pakistan Islamabad Imran Javed appreciated the academic and educational services of International Islamic University Islamabad and stated that Radio Pakistan Islamabad remains open to students of the University’s media department for practical training opportunities.