4th International Conference on Teaching and Learning Concludes at IIUI

The Department of Teacher Education, Faculty of Education, International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), in collaboration with the Iqbal International Institute for Research & Dialogue (IRD) and the National Book Foundation, concluded the two-day 4th International Conference on Innovation in Teaching and Learning (ICITL-2025) on September 10–11.

The conference gathered national and international scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to deliberate on emerging trends in education. The sessions covered digital transformation, curriculum innovation, inclusive pedagogies, assessment reforms, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence in classrooms.

In the closing ceremony Dr. Azhar Mahmood, Incharge Programs, Faculty of Education, welcomed the participants and appreciated their active contribution over the two days.

Presenting the conference report, Dr. Fouzia Ajmal, Conference Secretary, shared that the event featured seven keynote addresses, more than 80 paper and poster presentations, and a panel discussion. The recommendations included aligning curricula with global job market needs, responsible adoption of technology and AI, standardized teacher licensing, and strengthening inclusive education through training and assistive resources.

Keynote speakers and their addresses included Prof. Dr. Jameel-Un Nabi, Vice Chancellor, University of Wah – Progressive Strategies for Dynamic Times to Improve Education and Learning, Professor James O’Meara, Dean of Global and Community Engagement, Texas A&M International University, USA – Disruptive Internationalization: Transforming Teacher Education to Provide International Experiences for All, Dr. Nur Ehsan Mohd Said, Head, Higher Education English Test (HEET) Centre, National University of Malaysia – Practice of Differentiated Instruction (DI) to Modern Classrooms, Dr. Shamsa Aziz, Secretary, NACTE – Curriculum Innovation and Accreditation of Teacher Education Programs in Pakistan: Pathways to Quality, Prof. Dr. Rukhsana Zia, Head, Center for Learning and Teaching, FC College University, Lahore – Sustainable AI Professional Development Model for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs),Dr. S. M. Mohammad Ismail, Former Vice Chancellor, South Eastern University, Sri Lanka – Higher Education in Sri Lanka: Needs and Challenges, Dr. Ahsan Ejaz, Postdoctoral Fellow, Lanzhou University, China – Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the Education and Cognitive Development of Graduates.

A panel discussion on “Developing Digital Pedagogical Mindsets among Prospective Teachers” brought together experts from Hazara University, HEC, IIUI, AIOU, and NUML, moderated by Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal.

Chief Guest Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, Vice Chancellor of National Skills University, stressed the need to link innovation with employability and practical skills. He highlighted “Agentic AI” as an emerging trend and urged universities to translate teaching innovations into workforce readiness and societal impact.

Guest of Honour, Mr. Aftab Ahmad Khan, Secretary General, Pakistan National Commission for UNESCO (PNCU), noted UNESCO’s ongoing work on AI-related training in schools.

In the closing session, Dr. Muhammad Munir Kayani, Conference Chair and Chairperson, Department of Teacher Education, thanked participants and collaborators. He said the conference underscored the importance of inquiry-driven teaching, digital pedagogies, and international cooperation for improving education quality.

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

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.

2-Day International Conference on “Role of Institutions and Individuals in the Reviving of the Arabic Language”