Islamabad: A seminar on "National Security and Social Cohesion" was held at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) as part of the Independence Day celebrations, featuring a flag hoisting ceremony. The event, organized by the Islamic Research Institute (IRI) of IIUI, aimed to underscore the importance of national unity and the role of education in nation-building.
According to International Islamic University Islamabad, the seminar featured Vice President (Administration & Finance) IIUI Prof. Dr. Abdul Rashid as the chief guest and Ch. Hussain Ali, an alumnus of IIUI and resource person for the Paigham e Pakistan initiative, as the guest speaker. Dr. Abdul Rashid emphasized the significance of Independence Day in national self-assessment and the enduring relevance of the principles of Unity, Faith, and Discipline. He highlighted the pivotal role of universities in leadership development and called for coordinated efforts in poverty reduction and national progress.
Ch. Hussain Ali addressed the inseparability of national security and the fulfillment of basic needs, stressing that economic stability is essential for sustainable peace. He identified social division and misinformation as significant challenges to national cohesion, urging education to foster critical thinking and responsible citizenship rather than merely serving as a pathway to employment.
Director General IRI Dr. Muhammad Akram stressed the importance of unity and self-accountability, while Director Students Affairs Dr. Ghufran Ali and Dr. Rukhsana Tariq emphasized interfaith harmony and unity within the university community. The event also featured an exhibition at the Dr. Hamidullah Library and performances by IIUI Schools' children, celebrating the nation's independence with a cake-cutting ceremony.