ISLAMABAD -UNS: The Islamic Research Institute (IRI) of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) organised a seminar on “National Security and Social Cohesion” followed by a flag hoisting ceremony in connection with the Independence Day celebrations.
Vice President (Administration & Finance) IIUI Prof. Dr. Abdul Rashid was the chief guest on the occasion, while Ch. Hussain Ali, resource person of the Paigham e Pakistan initiative and an alumnus of IIUI, was the guest speaker.
Addressing the participants, Prof. Dr. Abdul Rashid highlighted the significance of Independence Day and paid glowing tribute to those who rendered sacrifices for the independence and creation of Pakistan.
Describing the day as an occasion for national self assessment, he urged reflection upon the achievements of the country, its shortcomings and its future direction, and recalled that the guiding principles of the Quaid e Azam, Unity, Faith and Discipline, remain the enduring foundations of national progress.
He emphasised the pivotal role of universities in nation building and leadership development, called for effective utilisation of Pakistan’s human capital and underscored the importance of social capital, including trust, shared values and a sense of collective responsibility.
The Vice President identified poverty reduction as a major national priority requiring sustained and coordinated efforts, and observed that Pakistan’s international standing had gained greater significance in the context of recent regional developments, including the Islamabad Agreement and the Makkah Joint Agreement.
On the occasion, the Vice President also shared the Independence Day message of the President IIUI, conveyed from abroad, in which he felicitated the university community on the Independence Day. The message reaffirmed the enduring relevance of Unity, Faith and Discipline, the principles espoused by the Founder of Pakistan, and highlighted the critical role of universities in nation building, leadership development and in preparing the youth to respond effectively to emerging national and global challenges.
