Islamabad: Students from the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) participated in a national conference held to mark the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, hosted at the National Skills University Islamabad and Serena Hotel. Organized by the Pakistan Disabled Foundation, the three-day event brought together policymakers, researchers, educators, and disability-rights advocates from across the nation.
The IIUI delegation, led by Director of Students Affairs Dr. Ghufran Ahmed and Focal Person Muhammad Shakir, demonstrated the University’s commitment to accessibility, inclusive education, and empowerment for students with disabilities.
Dr. Ghufran Ahmed engaged with participants during various sessions, acknowledging the constructive contributions of students with disabilities in university activities. He highlighted their active role in campus elections and their growing involvement in academic and co-curricular initiatives aimed at fostering equal representation and inclusive student leadership.
Muhammad Shakir, IIUI’s Focal Person, presented key concerns and recommendations on behalf of students with disabilities, emphasizing the need for improved assistive technologies, accessible classrooms, Braille materials, and a transparent quota system in student support schemes. His address was well-received and underscored the University’s efforts toward disability inclusion.
The conference featured seven technical and policy sessions that addressed educational needs, employment challenges, institutional responsibilities, assistive technologies, volunteer engagement, and rights and inclusion for persons with disabilities. IIUI students attended all major sessions, including keynote addresses and policy dialogues.
Experts from organizations such as HEC, NADRA, State Bank of Pakistan, and Pakistan Railways shared recommendations for enhancing accessibility frameworks. The event also included the distribution of white canes and essential aids to participants.
The active participation of IIUI students under the leadership of Dr. Ghufran Ahmed and Muhammad Shakir illustrated the University’s steadfast commitment to representation, inclusion, and support for students with disabilities.