Lecture on “Iqbal and Today’s Youth” Sparks Inspiration at Lahore

/0 Comments/in /by

The Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD) organized a thought-provoking lecture on the theme “Iqbal and Today’s Youth” at Jamia Naeemia, Lahore. The event witnessed an enthusiastic turnout of students and religious scholars, who gathered to explore the timeless relevance of Allama Iqbal’s philosophy.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Talib Hussain Sial, a distinguished scholar, who highlighted the importance of self-awareness, intellectual growth, and moral integrity in navigating modern challenges. Drawing from Iqbal’s teachings, Dr. Sial urged the youth to embrace their responsibilities and work towards a progressive society aligned with Iqbal’s vision.

The Additional Director of IRD Nasir Farid expressed gratitude to Jamia Naeemia for hosting the event and emphasized the IRD mission to promote intellectual engagement among youth. He provided insights into the objectives of the IRD lecture series, aimed at reconnecting students with the wisdom of national thinkers like Allama Iqbal.

The session concluded with a vibrant interactive discussion, reflecting the audience’s keen interest in understanding and applying Iqbal’s message in contemporary contexts.

Concluding Ceremony of IRD’s Two-Day Workshop Held at Jamia Naeemia, Lahore

/0 Comments/in /by

Lahore, June 26, 2025 — The two-day national workshop on “Madrassa: Personal and Institutional Development”, organized by the Iqbal International Institute for Research & Dialogue (IRD), concluded today with a formal closing ceremony at Jamia Naeemia, Lahore.

The Chief Guest Dr. Muhammad Arshad Iqbal Naeemi in his address, emphasized the pivotal role of mosque leadership and Imams in promoting social ethics and fostering a morally conscious society. He lauded the IRD’s efforts in organizing such timely and relevant training for madrassa faculty and students.

A special session on media and communication was conducted by Mr. Nasir Farid, Additional Director at IRD. He discussed the responsibilities of educators in navigating media narratives and the importance of verifying information before sharing. He also thanked the participants for their active engagement and collected feedback on the workshop’s content and delivery.

To gain deeper insight into participants’ thinking and expression styles, Mr. Farid also conducted an interactive post-writing activity, which aimed to explore the writing psychology and communication approach of the attendees.

Participants from various religious backgrounds commended the IRD for providing an inclusive and thoughtful platform. They strongly encouraged the continuation of such capacity-building initiatives in the future to further enhance the impact and outreach of madrassa education.

The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks and distribution of certificates to all participants, marking the successful completion of the program.

Two-Day National Workshop on “Madrassa: Personal and Institutional Development” Begins at Jamia Naeemia, Lahore

/0 Comments/in , /by

Lahore, June 25, 2025 — A two-day national workshop on “Madrassa: Personal and Institutional Development” commenced today at Jamia Naeemia, Lahore, bringing together over 50 madrassa teachers from various schools of thought.

Organized by the Iqbal International Institute for Research & Dialogue (IRD), the workshop aims to foster professional growth among madrassa educators while encouraging dialogue, harmony, and critical reflection within religious institutions

The opening session featured Mr. Nasir Farid, Additional Director at IRD, who welcomed the participants and provided an overview of the workshop’s goals, emphasizing the need for collaborative and forward-looking approaches in madrassa education.

Sahibzada Amanat Rasool, a respected religious scholar, delivered a keynote on “Dialogue and Harmony,” stressing the importance of inter-sectarian understanding and peaceful coexistence in a diverse religious landscape.

The day continued with an insightful presentation by Dr. Ammar Khan Nasir, who spoke on “Contemporary Challenges Faced by Madrassa Teachers and Practical Solutions.” He outlined the need for pedagogical reform and contextual awareness among religious educators.

Dr. Mubashir Hussain, Associate Professor at the University of the Punjab, presented on “The Importance of Critical Thinking in the Contemporary Era,” highlighting the role of intellectual engagement and analytical reasoning in religious education.

The workshop will continue tomorrow with more interactive sessions, aiming to equip participants with practical tools and perspectives to enhance both their personal development and institutional effectiveness

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

/0 Comments/in /by

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

/0 Comments/in , /by

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  

/0 Comments/in , /by

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”

/0 Comments/in /by

.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

/0 Comments/in , , /by

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”

/0 Comments/in /by

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”

/0 Comments/in /by

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.