Islamabad, At the 12th Convocation of International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), President of Pakistan and Chancellor of IIUI, Dr. Arif Alvi, emphasized the crucial role of women’s participation in decision-making and the economy for the nation’s prosperity.
According to International Islamic University Islamabad, President Alvi, addressing the graduates, highlighted the importance of women joining the workforce post-education to contribute positively to society. He appreciated that female students comprised over half of IIUI’s total strength of 34,000. The President expressed concern about the nation’s loss of investment in women’s education when they do not participate in practical life. He called for the state’s responsibility in ensuring women’s protection against workplace harassment.
The President also referenced Islamic history, citing Hazrat Khadija (R.A) as a businesswoman and quoting Quaid-e-Azam’s emphasis on encouraging women in various fields. He urged graduates to remain open to knowledge without religious biases and to act humbly as seekers of knowledge. He condemned the situation in Gaza and praised Pope Francis’ call for a ceasefire, criticizing the West and Israel for their inaction.
Dr. Ahmed Salem Muhammad Al-Ameri, Pro-Chancellor of IIUI and President of Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, congratulated the graduates and appreciated the leadership of IIUI President Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi. He mentioned the importance of Saudi-Pakistan ties and the Saudi Government’s scholarship programs. He expressed hope for more joint programs and delegations between IIUI and Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University.
Rector IIUI, Dr. Samina Malik, highlighted IIUI’s comprehensive educational offerings across various disciplines and the modernization of its curriculum. She praised Dr. Alotaibi’s efforts in improving the university’s rankings and infrastructure.
Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi, President of IIUI, outlined the university’s strategic plan focusing on modernizing teaching processes and digitization. He thanked the Saudi government for its support and detailed the university’s initiatives, including the completion of the Campus Management Project and the transformation of the quality department.
The convocation was also attended by Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Ahmad Al-Malki, Qatari Ambassador Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, other diplomats, and educational leaders.