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.

One-day Seminar on “Iqbal’s Vision for the Youth”

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A one-day seminar on “Iqbal’s Vision for the Youth” was organized by IRD in collaboration with the Department of Urdu, Politics & I.R and History and Pakistan Studies, IIUI today at Allama Iqbal Auditorium, IIU Old Campus. The seminar conveyed Iqbal’s message of peace and humanity to youth in an effective manner. It also taught a sense of Khudi among youth that urges them to acknowledge their innate abilities and work towards self-actualization. The guest speakers, including Dr. Saleem Mazhar, Director General, National Language Promotion Department, Pakistan, Dr. Talib Hussain Sial, Iqbaliyat expert, Teacher, Researcher, Critic, Dr. Humaira Shehbaz, Iqbaliyat expert, Teacher, Research, Critic, enlightened the audience on the topic. Dr. Talib Hussain Sial linked the events of Iqbal’s visit to Europe with the current situation and told the young generation that they should maintain their independence at all costs. He said that Iqbal’s philosophy is connected with Islam. He presents philosophical ideas compatible with religion. Dr. Humira Shehbaz, while her address, presented an Urdu translation and Persian text of a story in Iqbal’s Persian poetry. She said that Iqbal’s addressees were mostly young people and said that out of the total seventeen thousand poems of Iqbal, about twelve thousand are in Persian. Therefore, the Persian language should also be studied.

Dr. Salim Mazhar presented Iqbal’s philosophical thoughts in the context of the Holy Quran and made his philosophy a beacon for the youth and said that Iqbal is a great poet and philosopher not only of this region but of the world. The closing remarks of the ceremony were delivered by Prof. Dr. Abdul Rahman (Vice President, Academics).  He thanked the honorable speakers.  He suggested that such programs should be organized on the new campus of the International Islamic University where students from many fields can understand Iqbal. In the end, souvenirs were presented to the guest speakers.

2-Day Workshop on “Quality First: Enhancing Online Teaching in Higher Education”

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A 2-Day Workshop on “Quality First: Enhancing Online Teaching in Higher Education” has been successfully inaugurated today. The Workshop has been organized by the Faculty of Education, IIU, in collaboration with Iqbal International Institute for Research & Dialogue (IRD) and the Directorate of Quality Assurance and Development (QAD), IIUI. The Workshop aims to strengthen the quality of online education across higher education institutions in Pakistan, focusing on best practices for course design, student engagement, and assessment in digital platforms. The workshop’s resource persons include experts from renowned institutions including Prof. Dr. Muhammad Idrees (Pakistan Institute of Education), Prof. Dr. Tamim Ahmed Khan (Bahria University), Dr. Azhar Mahmood (IIUI), Mr. Shahid Minhas (SDPI), Dr. Zarina Akhtar (IIUI), Dr. Rukhsana Durrani (Allama Iqbal Open University), Dr. Fatima Maqsood (IIUI), Dr. Mubeshera Tufail (AIOU) Dr. Munawwar Ahmed (Virtual University) and Dr. Fouzia Ajmal (IIUI). Participants from the universities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad are attending the event. The Workshop will continue till 19th September 2024.

Visit of Faculty Members of Government College University Hyderabad

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A 14-member delegation of the Faculty members of Government College University, Hyderabad, on study tour to different universities of Pakistan, also visited IRD and met with the director. The Director IRD Syed Hassan Aftab welcomed the delegates and briefed them about the IIUI and IRD. The delegation, while lauding the efforts of IRD, thanked the Director for brief presentation. Later on, a visit to IRI Library was also carried out.

A 14-member delegation of the Faculty members of Government College University, Hyderabad, on study tour to different universities of Pakistan, also visited IRD and met with the director. The Director IRD Syed Hassan Aftab welcomed the delegates and briefed them about the IIUI and IRD. The delegation, while lauding the efforts of IRD, thanked the Director for brief presentation. Later on, a visit to IRI Library was also carried out.

4-Day Youth Empowerment Camp for Male University Students

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Empowering Young Male Leaders through Experiential Learning!

Fifty young male participants from all over the country was set to embark on a transformative journey designed to refine their personalities and enhance their leadership and team-building skills during the Youth Empowerment Camp for Girls, organized by the Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (International Islamic University Islamabad)!

This camp was more than just an adventure; it’s a comprehensive experiential learning experience! Featuring a series of exciting outdoor adventure activities expertly designed, the camp emphasized “learning by doing.” Participants were engaged in unique challenges that test their problem-solving abilities, resilience, teamwork, and leadership.

Guided by the innovative methods, participants faced obstacles that required collaborative effort and strategic thinking to overcome. Each activity is followed by insightful de-briefing sessions by the facilitators, where participants reflect on their experiences, identify their strengths and areas for improvement, and connect these lessons to real-life scenarios.

Through this dynamic and hands-on approach, the camp aimed to foster resilience, leadership skills, and team spirit among these young men, prepared them to become empowered leaders ready to make a difference in their communities. The blend of physical challenges and reflective learning ensured that each participant gains a deeper understanding of themselves and their potential.

4-Day Youth Empowerment Camp for Female University Students

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Empowering Young Female Leaders through Experiential Learning!

Fifty young female participants from all over the country was set to embark on a transformative journey designed to refine their personalities and enhance their leadership and team-building skills during the Youth Empowerment Camp for Girls, organized by the Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (International Islamic University Islamabad)!

This camp was more than just an adventure; it’s a comprehensive experiential learning experience! Featuring a series of exciting outdoor adventure activities expertly designed, the camp emphasized “learning by doing.” Participants were engaged in unique challenges that test their problem-solving abilities, resilience, teamwork, and leadership.

Guided by the innovative methods, participants faced obstacles that required collaborative effort and strategic thinking to overcome. Each activity is followed by insightful de-briefing sessions by the facilitators, where participants reflect on their experiences, identify their strengths and areas for improvement, and connect these lessons to real-life scenarios.

Through this dynamic and hands-on approach, the camp aimed to foster resilience, leadership skills, and team spirit among these young women, prepared them to become empowered leaders ready to make a difference in their communities. The blend of physical challenges and reflective learning ensured that each participant gains a deeper understanding of themselves and their potential.