Islamabad, A high-level delegation from the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), led by H.E. Prof. Dr. Ahmed bin Salem Al Ameri, Chancellor of IIUI and President of Riyadh’s Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, along with the Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, met with Pakistan’s Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training, Mr. Madad Ali Sindhi.
According to International Islamic University, Islamabad, the meeting was productive, with Minister Madad Ali Sindhi commending the accomplishments of Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University. The minister emphasized his focus on enhancing the quality of education, reducing the number of out-of-school children, and promoting research on Seerat e Nabi (PBUH). Sindhi praised IIUI President Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi for his exemplary efforts in upgrading the university’s systems and consistently raising educational standards.
The meeting highlighted the importance of expanding research on Islamic teachings, including Shariat, the role of the judiciary, Islamic law, and the political teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Both parties agreed to initiate an exchange program for teachers to conduct research on Seerat e Nabi (PBUH). Dr. Ahmed Bin Salem Al Amri announced that the Riyadh university has offered 700 scholarships to Pakistani students, with plans to increase this number in collaboration with the Pakistani education ministry.
Furthermore, the discussion covered the need for collaboration in various fields like medicine, cybersecurity, climate change, engineering, artificial intelligence, distance learning, and renewable energy, with financial support from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The exchange of expertise, especially in teacher training, was also a key topic, with an agreement to start a faculty training exchange program.
Dr. Ahmed Bin Salem Al Amri emphasized the value of Arabic language institutes in Saudi Arabia extending their programs to Pakistani universities through distance learning or teacher exchanges. He stated that the visit’s purpose was to strengthen the strategic relationship between the two nations, a sentiment echoed by Minister Madad Ali Sindhi, who acknowledged the deep bonds between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi spoke about his commitment to improving Pakistani society through academic education and character building, based on the teachings of Islam. He shared the strategic plan of IIUI and his vision for academic excellence.