Minhaj University Lahore Concludes Religious Conference with Call for Global Healing

Lahore: Minhaj University Lahore wrapped up the second day of the 9th International Conference on World Religions by unveiling the "Lahore Declaration on Hands That Heal." The declaration calls for commitments to human dignity, interfaith cooperation, inclusive education, and shared leadership.

According to Minhaj University Lahore, the two-day conference, organized by the School of Religion & Philosophy, focused on the theme "Healing a Wounded World: Religious Responsibility, Solidarity and Action." It attracted national and international scholars, religious leaders, researchers, and students. The event included research sessions, panel discussions, book presentations, and the recognition of scholarly contributions.

The conference was presided over by Prof. Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri, Chairholder of the UNESCO Chair on Peace Education and Intercultural Dialogue. Other prominent participants included Prof. Dr. Sajid Mehmood Shahzad, Vice Chancellor, and Prof. Dr. Khurram Shahzad, Registrar and Conference Convener.

One of the key sessions, "Role of Government in Resolving the Conflicts to Heal a Wounded World," discussed governance, institutional reform, and religious responsibility. Rev. Philip Duncan Peters of the Free Church of Scotland moderated the session, with contributions from various scholars.

Another session, "Renewal of Religious Education and Values," highlighted the engagement of young people in religious education, peace, and social harmony. Dr. Ali Raza Tahir moderated the session, which featured keynote speeches and presentations on digital ethics and social responsibility.

The conference also addressed women's contributions to peacebuilding in the "Beyond the Home: Women, Faith and the Healing of Pakistan" panel. Dr. Sara Rizvi Jafree moderated discussions on education, personal choice, and equal employment opportunities for women.

In the closing session, Mr. Farhan Aziz Khawaja, Director General of the Civil Services Academy, emphasized minority inclusion and cooperation. He announced the Academy's National Outreach Programme to support young minority graduates.

Maj. Gen. (R) Dr. Ghulam Qamar highlighted justice and inclusive education in his address, discussing the integration of contemporary subjects in religious education.

The conference concluded with a keynote by Prof. Dr. Abdullah Saeed, who called for justice and cooperation beyond dialogue. The "Lahore Declaration on Hands That Heal" outlined commitments to healing curricula, interfaith alliances, and shared leadership, inviting institutions to engage in practical work.

The event closed with a collective meditation session and prayers for global peace, led by Prof. Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri, marking two days of academic exchange and interfaith engagement.

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