Islamabad: Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, underscored the significance of the Prophet Muhammad’s life as a guide for addressing global crises during the closing session of the International Sirah Conference hosted by the Islamic Research Institute at the International Islamic University Islamabad.

Addressing a gathering of scholars, international delegates, and students, Iqbal stressed the Prophet’s legacy as a model of noble character and human dignity. He highlighted the need for Muslim unity, particularly in light of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Palestine, and emphasized the relevance of the Sirah in fostering sustainable development and economic stability based on principles of justice and compassion.

The conference, which attracted notable figures such as Raja Zafar-ul-Haq, Secretary-General of the World Muslim Congress, and Dr. Saad Eddine El Othmani, former Prime Minister of Morocco, featured over 90 research papers from national and international scholars.

Raja Zafar-ul-Haq emphasized making Sirah literature accessible in multiple languages for youth, and advocated for utilizing digital media to spread the Prophet’s teachings. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman of the Higher Education Commission, praised the Islamic Research Institute for its contributions to Sirah studies and encouraged universities to advance this field.

Key recommendations from the conference included integrating Sirah studies into academic curricula and developing digital libraries to expand access to Sirah literature. Scholars also suggested establishing research centers dedicated to applying prophetic teachings to contemporary issues such as social justice and environmental sustainability.

The conference concluded with a shared commitment to using Sirah scholarship to address global challenges, advocating for multidisciplinary approaches to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the Prophet’s legacy.