Islamabad (Staff Reporter) – A seminar on “National Security and Social Harmony” was organized at Faisal Mosque as part of the Independence Day celebrations by the Islamic Research Institute (IRI) of the International Islamic University Islamabad, along with a flag hoisting ceremony.
The chief guest of the event was Vice President (Administrative and Financial Affairs) Professor Dr. Abdul Rashid, while Chaudhry Hussain Ali, a resource person for the Pakistan Message initiative and a former student of the university, participated as a guest speaker.
Addressing the participants, Professor Dr. Abdul Rashid highlighted the significance of Independence Day and paid tribute to those who sacrificed for the establishment of Pakistan and freedom. He described this day as an opportunity for national accountability, emphasizing the need to seriously reflect on the country’s achievements, shortcomings, and future direction. He stated that the guiding principles of Quaid-e-Azam—Unity, Faith, and Discipline—remain the sustainable foundation for national development. He stressed the key role of universities in nation-building and leadership development, calling for effective utilization of Pakistan’s human capital and highlighting the importance of social capital, including trust, shared values, and a sense of collective responsibility.
The Vice President declared poverty alleviation as a crucial national priority that requires continuous and coordinated efforts. On this occasion, he conveyed the Independence Day message from the President of the International Islamic University, congratulating all university affiliates on Independence Day. The message reaffirmed the enduring significance of the founder of Pakistan’s principles of Unity, Faith, and Discipline, and underscored the decisive role of universities in nation-building, leadership formation, and preparing youth to effectively tackle emerging national and global challenges.
Guest speaker Chaudhry Hussain Ali stated that national security cannot be separated from fulfilling the basic needs of the people, and economic stability is essential for sustainable peace. He identified social division and rising trends of unrest as major challenges to national unity and urged citizens to consider what they can contribute to the country. He remarked that modern wars cannot be won solely through military might, and education is the most effective tool for building a strong and stable nation.
He pointed out that misinformation and false information are significant causes of social unrest, stating that Pakistan faces the challenge of rising propaganda. He emphasized the need to raise awareness among youth about the effects of social media, particularly the trend of online personalities becoming role models. He urged that education should not merely be seen as a means of employment but should serve as a means of developing conscious maturity, critical thinking, and responsible citizenship.
Earlier, Director General of IRI Dr. Muhammad Akram stated that this day is a time to thank Allah for the great blessing of freedom and to remember it, as freedom is a collective blessing for the entire nation. He conveyed a special message of gratitude and congratulations from the President of the International Islamic University and Acting Rector Professor Dr. Ahmad Saad Al-Ahmad on Independence Day.
Dr. Muhammad Akram emphasized the need for unity among national ranks, stating that the enemy is always looking for opportunities, and its designs can only be thwarted through mutual unity and solidarity. He urged every segment of society to adopt a process of self-accountability. He also stressed the promotion of interfaith harmony and highlighted the Pakistan Message initiative launched by the institution.
Director of Student Affairs Dr. Ghufran Ahmed referenced Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s speech in the Constituent Assembly, stating that the leader wanted to make peaceful coexistence and interfaith harmony a part of national life. He encouraged youth to adopt a positive mindset.
Director of Female Campus Student Affairs Dr. Rukhsana Tariq remarked that this seminar and flag hoisting ceremony convey a message of patriotism and unity among all departments of the university.
The chief guest also visited the IRI’s Dr. Hamidullah Library, where a book exhibition was organized in connection with Independence Day.
During the event, students from the International Islamic University presented national songs, which were highly appreciated by the participants. These children have also recorded a national song issued by the Government of Pakistan. The event was hosted by Dr. Aftab Ahmed, head of the Department of Comparative Religions, IRI.
The ceremony was attended by a large number of faculty, officials, and students, including foreign students from various countries. At the end of the program, a cake was cut to celebrate Independence Day.