Report by: Hafiz Atiq ur Rehman

Prof Dr. Muhammad Irfan Khan, chairman department of environmental science visited Saudi Arabia as environmental expert by the United Nation’s food and agriculture organization.

The technical cooperation department of United Nations FAO has invited Dr. Irfan Khan as environmental expert for a short mission to Hofuf, Al-Hassa for preliminary environmental impact assessment of the utilization of non-conventional water resources of treated waste water for irrigation in Al Hassa by ministry of agriculture of kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Irfan Khan also provided training on environmental and health impact assessment of wastewater use in agriculture to the engineers of Al-Hassa irrigation and drainage authority.

During his visit he also visited King Faisal University and delivered a lecture in the faculty of engineering. The FAO has requested him to developed an environmental management framework for ministry of agriculture and establish a centre for environmental studies at FAO centre at Al-Hassa irrigation and drainage authority.

Report by: Hafiz Atiq ur Rehman

The original linguistic research work by Dr. Ahsan ur Rehman has gained special recognition as the twelfth theory with regards to all studies made so far on the Huroof ul Muqatta‘at. The website on Muqatta’at has recognized it as the twelfth theory on its website which can be accessed through http://lasjan.page.tl/muqattaat.htm/ 

The effort of Dr. Ahsan is a very worthwhile achievement for International Islamic University by this he earned notable recognition for his research work.

The general knowledge encyclopedia, Wikipedia has also included the said research in its section on Muqatta’at and commented in the sub heading under modern research on Muqatta’at in the following way. A recent PhD on the subject claims that there is phonological, syntactic and semantic link between the letters and the text of the chapters.

The research is carried out by Prof. Ahsan ur Rehman in his PhD thesis; Morpho phonemic patterns in the prefixed chapters of the Qur’an. The same research has also been put on display in the Ebsco website.

Report by: Hafiz Atiq ur Rehman

As many as seven employees of International Islamic university Islamabad would be provided the opportunity to perform Hajj and Umrah respectively this year. This was announced on the lucky draw ceremony, which was held yesterday to choose the seven fortunate employees from faculty, officers and lower grade staff for Hajj and Ummrah. On the occasion President IIUI Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh was chief guest, while director general AF&P Gulzar Ahmed Khawja was guest of honour.

The ceremony was also attended by the chairman Employee Welfare Fund Khalid Mehmood Raja, director female campus Dr. Farkhanda Zia, secretary EWF Nuzhat Zareen, directors and employees of the university. The three members chosen for Hajj including Abdul Qadir Haroon Assistant Professor, Amir Shezad Liberarian, Muhammad Hadayat Gardner (mali) while four member chosen for Ummrah are Muneera Bano Assistant Professor, Abdul Qyuom assistant director, Zahid Khan Gardner (mali) and Muhammad Iftekhar UDC. The worth mentioning is here that all the expenses of Hajj would be paid by the President Dr. Al-Draiweesh while four would be sent to Ummrah by Employee Welfare Fund.

Addressing the ceremony Dr. Al-Draiweesh said every Muslim has strong wish to perform Hajj and Umrah; also want to join the sacred environment of Baitullah and Masjid-e-Nabvi. He said those who are chosen to avail the opportunity of Hajj and Ummrah are fortunate ones. Congratulating and appreciating the university welfare fund committee President added that this is great service of the employees being done by the fund, which should be increased, so more the number of staff may take the benefits. He also quoted Verses and Hadiths regarding Hajj and Umrah to explore the importance and sacredness. Dr. Al-Draiweesh vowed that IIUI would make this platform more active so that more employees could get the opportunity to see the Holy land of Makkah and Madeenah.

In his address Gulzar Ahmed Khawja highly appreciate the efforts and all projects initiated by the EWF. He said every person should actively participate to boost the fund. Gulzar Khawja also congratulated the fortunate employees and wished best for all to be nominated in future.

Earlier, Khalid Mehmood Raja and Nuzhat Zareen also addressed the participants and briefed them all about the Employee Welfare Fund and new projects for the welfare of employees.

Report by: Hafiz Atiq ur Rehman

Dawah Center for Women International Islamic University Islamabad organized 8th National Training Program for Hajj Master Trainers in which more than fifty participants from across the Pakistan took part in training session.

Addressing the inaugural session as chief guest former Director Female Campus IIUI Dr. Zaitoon Begum said DCW contributing a lot in different training programs and particularly Hajj training session is great addition in services of general people. Earlier, In-Charge DCW Shagufta Umar welcomed the participants and briefed them about the program in detail. This training program consisted two week long duration.

Report by: Hafiz Atiq ur Rehman

The 7th Meeting of the Board of Advanced Studies & Research (BASR) 2014 of the International Islamic University was held under the chairmanship of President IIUI Prof Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh. During the meeting, research proposals and synopsis and the thesis of the students of Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Faculty of Management Sciences and Faculty of Social Sciences were discussed and some decisions were also taken accordingly.

The meeting was attended by all the members of the Board and issued valuable instructions for further research work to the students. Dr. Al-Draiweesh in his remarks said that scholars should take great care of the context and its validity of the topic while choosing and selecting topics for research. “The research should be conducted on contemporary issues and problems”. He added. President IIUI thanked the board members and appreciated their key role to guide students regarding their research endeavors.

According to Office of the Director Academics of the university, “IIUI shall be launching admission for Fall Semester 2014 for 129 Undergraduate (BS/B.Tech), Post Graduate/Masters (MSc/MBA/MA/LLB), MS/M.Phil/LLM and Doctorate (Ph.D) level Academic Programs of 09 distinct Faculties w.e.f June 01 2014”.

Consolidated advertisement containing details of programs, their eligibility criterion and other relevant information shall be published in National Dailies on Sunday i.e. June 01 2014. The consolidated advertisement shall also be available on IIU website www.iiu.edu.pk

GAT General/NTS notified score shall not be considered as pre requisite for admission to MS/MPhil/LLM and Ph.D programs. Candidates who fulfill the admission criterion apart from NTS/GAT are encouraged to apply for admission.

Report by: Muhammad Nauman

A two member delegation of Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) visited International Islamic University, reviewed matters pertaining to establishment of Civil Engineering Department at university and also called on President International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh.

The delegation members include representative of PEC Peshawar Engr. Jahanzeb Khan and NEDUET Karachi, Civil Engineering Expert Prof. Dr. Sarosh Hashmat Lodhi. The meeting was also attended by Director General AF&P Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja, Dean Faculty of Engineering and Technology Dr. Aqdas Naveed Malik, Chairman Department of Mechanical Engineering Dr. Saeed Badshah and Chairman Electronic Engineering Dr. Muhammad Amir.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Al-Draiweesh lauded the cooperation of PEC and stressed on the point that mutual cooperation between Saudi universities and PEC can be proved as vital advancement for the student of both countries. “IIUI focuses on quality instead of quantity, while making it top Priority university decided to establish department of Civil Engineering” said President IIUI. He reiterated his resolve that IIUI would keep working to educate Muslim Youth with contemporary advancements and with a blend of Islamic teachings.

Delegation members, while agreeing on the point of mutual cooperation, assured that PEC administration and its experts would provide all possible support to IIUI.

At the end, university crests and publications were presented by the President IIUI to the delegation members. Later, the delegation visited the FET where they were briefed about the departments.

Report by: Muhammad Nauman

Newly elected members of Academic Staff Association (ASA) of International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) sworn in, in an oath taking ceremony held at male campus of university here on Wednesday.

President IIUI Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh administrated the oath to the newly elected ASA members who joined the ASA panel after unopposed announcement of new ASA body and consensus in the association and academic community of the university. Dr. AtiqulZafar, consecutively was announced as the President of the association for the second time.

The Ceremony was also attended by Vice President Academics Dr. Muhammad Bashir Khan, Director General AF&P Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja, Director General Shariah Academy Dr. Tahir Mansoori, Director Institute for Professional Development Dr. Saeed ul Hassan Chishti, Deans, Directors, Former ASA members and large number of academic community. Dr. Muhammad Akram has joined ASA as Vice President, Dr. Husnain Naqvi as Secretary General, Rooh ul Amin Khan as Information Secretary, Aleem Khaliq as Joint Secretary, Zaren Musharaf as Vice President (female) and Ghazala Ghalib Khan as Joint Secretary.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Al-Draiweesh said teachers have vital role in dissemination of knowledge in the society and spreading knowledge, involving people in education is actually equal to following of the teachings of Holy Prophet (PBUH). “IIUI is heading towards a destination of success and achievements of its lofty goals, it’s becoming possible with the united efforts by the administration and academic staff” said President IIUI.

He added that “IIUI is like a boat and if we handle it with the care and manage to put it on the right direction it would be our success and it must be our ultimate goal too”. While congratulating the new members of ASA, Dr. Al-Draiweesh vowed full support and hoped new addition to the association would be proved as meaningful development for the varsity.

He said IIUI management is working hard to establish a medical college and a hospital while construction of a residential colony for the teaching staff is also under contemplation of the university authorities. He wished best of luck to the ASA and academic community and hoped association would play key role in IIUI development.

President ASA Dr. AtiqulZafar, in his vote of thanks hoped that ASA would achieve its pending goals while referring to the completed ones. He thanked President IIUI, university administration and academic community for attending the ceremony.

Shields to the former ASA members were presented by President IIUI while a crest was also presented to Dr. Al-Draiweesh from ASA.

Later, a luncheon was held in the honor of the President IIUI, newly elected ASA members and academic community which was personally attended by President IIUI along with top IIUI officials.

Report by: Muhammad Nauman

Rector International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) Dr. Masoom Yasinzai in a meeting with his counterpart of University of Mediterranean Karpasia, (UMK) Cyprus Dr. Ali Sen, discussed issues of mutual interest.

Both the Rectors, in their meeting here, discussed matters pertaining to students and faculty exchange and agreed that mutual cooperation in the field of education among varsities was a pre-requisite for raising educational standards.

Dr. Masoom Yasinzai apprised Dr. Ali regarding IIUI collaborations and services which university providing to the students of 45 countries. He said IIUI, with the support of government providing contemporary knowledge in science and technology and various other declines with a blend of Islamic teachings. “IIUI, being an international educational institution is open for collaborations with the foreign universities”, said Rector IIUI.

Dr. Ali, while lauding IIUI role said his university focusing on Pakistani students as they have remarkable talent. He said University of Mediterranean Karpasia terms Pakistan as a vital country. He wished for collaboration among the both varsities especially in the field of business administration.

It was also vowed in the meeting that both universities would keep taking steps for strengthening bilateral relationships.

Report by: Muhammad Nauman

A four member delegation from Brawijaya University, Indonesia headed by its Vice Rector Dr. Sukoso visited International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) on Monday.

Dr. Sasmto Ojati, Dean Food Sciences, Dr. Bamband Suisto, Dean of Agriculture technology and Dr. Woro Busono, Director of Research also accompanied with Vice Rector of the university.

The delegation had a detailed meeting with Rector IIUI Dr. Masoom Yasinzai, President IIUI Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh, Vice President Dr. Muhammad Bashir Khan, and Director General AF&P Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja while all the DGs deans, directors, and other university officials also joined the meeting.

A detailed briefing and presentation regarding Brawijaya University was given by Dr. Sukoso. He informed about the cultural and religious diversity at university while he stressed that mutual cooperation among both the universities would be proved as vital step in the field of education. He also apprised that his meeting with President IIUI Dr. Al-Draiweesh at Indonesia was a precious experience where they discussed various matters of bilateral interest and possibilities for mutual collaborations.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Masoom Yasinzai said a teachers and students exchange program would be a mile stone to get the benefits of expertise from each side. He said IIUI has very conducive educational environment where every effort and step appreciated and highly encouraged. Rector also made delegation aware that Govt of Pakistan supporting with possible assistance to universities through higher education commission and inter-universities collaboration also taken valuable. Dr. Al-Draiweesh thanked and pleased to receive the guests in Islamic university and said such mutual educational visits are key to study the system of each other in view to enhance the competency. He invoked the collaboration among Islamic countries in education sector indispensible while adding IIUI is working to organize Intel Conference on Halal. In the end rector and president presented university crest and publications to guests.

Report by: Muhammad Nauman

Old campus-xi, after claiming IIUI employees’ cricket tape ball tournament, lifted their maiden International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) Cricket Champion Trophy with a 9-wicket victory against inter-faculty winner, faculty of basic and applied sciences team.

43 not out knock of Qadeer and 36 by Shahid helped Old campus-xi to chase the 88 target with 17 balls to spare. Target of 88 by the FBAS in 8 overs with mentionable batting effort of Dr. Ali Dawoud with 27 runs and Shezad Ashraf’s 27, was proved as cinch for the tournament’s best known team “Old Campus-xi who chased it in the 6th over.

Being Chief Guest at the closing ceremony of the grand finale, Rector IIUI Dr. Masoom Yasinzai announced 20-thousand rupees for the winning team. “By next year it would be a grand tournament involving all faculties, departments and offices of high ups” He added while terming the tournament as a constructive and a positive activity. He also announced his team would also participate in the next year tournament while he also invited President and Vice President to register teams for the next year tournament. Rector IIUI congratulated both the teams for playing final and winning their competitions in inter-department qualifying rounds.

Both winner and runner up teams were given trophies, shields and T-Shirts while organizers, Runner ups and winners in inter-faculty round were also given shields on the occasion. A tournament crust was also presented to the Rector IIUI. Earlier, Old Campus-xi had also won the IIUI Employees tournament few days back, closing ceremony of that final was graced by Director General AF&P Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja who announced 12-thousand for the winning team. ICT remained runner up of that tournament.

Report by: Muhammad Nauman

President International Islamic University Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh has directed that all deans should arrange meetings with faculty members every month which would help in academic progress and better education of students. This he said in a meeting with the delegation of faculty members of Faculty of Management Sciences which called on him in the leadership of Vice President IIUI Dr. Mohammad Bashir Khan.

Dr. Al-Draiweesh stressed on team work which he termed as key for the progress of university. He stressed that FMS should conduct a conference in coming days to broaden the exposure of students while adding that it would not also help to attract the new students but it would also provide an opportunity to faculty members for disseminating the scope of the field of management sciences. He assured that all possible support from the administration would be provided by the administration in this regard.

Faculty members, while thanking President IIUI showed full confidence in his leadership and vowed to cooperate for the progress of university.
Meanwhile, Dr. Al-Draiweesh also attended a meeting with the faculty members of Faculty of Arabic which was also attended by Dean of Faculty Dr. Muhammad Bashir, Head Arabic Language Centre Dr. Abdul Monim, number of foreign faculty members and female faculty members. He said Arabic is the language of Prophet (PBUH) and Quran; it must be the main focus of Muslim educational institutions. He said IIUI is worldly known for its excellence in Arabic language, “we are committed to set more new patterns of research in the field of Arabic which would benefit the students of whole Muslim world” he added.

Report by: Hafiz Atiq ur Rehman

The delegation of International Islamic University Islamabad visited Royal Saudi Embassy in Islamabad headed by the worthy Rector Prof Dr. Masoom Yasinzai, the delegation comprising President Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh, Vice President Dr. Muhammad Bashir Khan, Director General AF&P Gulzar Ahmed Khawja, Deans and Directors of the university.

The delegation visited to farewell meet with Ambassador of Khadmul Haramain Al-Shrefain to Pakistan Dr Abdul Aziz Ibrahim Saleh Al-Ghadeer. On the occasion of Dr. Masoom paid tribute to Dr. Al-Ghadeer on his incredible and noteworthy contributions not only for Pakistan specifically to uplift the standard of education. He also thanked and admired very friendly relations with particularly International Islamic University. Rector wished him very best of luck for him in future task and endeavors and urged his cooperation even in Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Al-Draiweesh admired the services of Dr. Al-Ghadeer during his tenure in Pakistan while mentioning remarkable projects especially in the field of education which have been done under the leadership of HE. He also added that Al-Ghadeer cooperated with the Islamic University in all respects up-to the best and many of the projects were completed with his personal concern. President also appreciated cooperation and support, provided by the wife of the ambassador Al-Johra Abdullah to university’s female campus. The worthy ambassador thanked the delegation and said the close relation with IIUI will be memorable part of life. He mentioned the love and honor received while be in Pakistan will always be great source of inspiration. Dr. Al-Ghadeer assured his cooperation, support and relation with IIUI will be top priority.

Honourable Ambassador of Egypt to Pakistan Saed Hindam wished to strengthen and enhance friendly relations with Pakistan. He said that “He wants that Egyptian Scholars, Teachers play their role for the uprising of education in Pakistan”. He further said that the contribution with Pakistani universities would continue. Saed Hindam praised and appreciated the services of IIUI and said that Islamic university is credibly considered in all Muslim Countries.

Earlier in his welcoming note President Prof. Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh admired the services of Egyptian teachers for the IIUI. He said “IIU feels proud to have foreign faculty members including Egypt, Saudi Arabia and from many other Muslim countries”. He also thanked to the Govt of Egypt lauded the role for this generous cooperation in this regard. Dr. Al-Draiweesh also wished to have more frequent relations, educational ties and exchange of students and teachers. At end President Dr. Al-Draiweesh presented university shields.

Dr. Ahmed Youaif Al-Draiweesh President IIUI said on the occasion Islam is binding force which ties Muslims in one unit, living either any corner of the world. He further enriched the participants about the philosophy of the cultures, impacts and transformation of the traditions and cultures of the world. He stressed that Muslims should always take guidance form Quran and Sunnah while they should also adopt the behavior of tolerance and moderation. The lecture was also attended by the Dean Shariah and Law Dr. Tahir Hakeem, Dean Arabic Dr. Muhammad Bashir, Deputy Dean Usuluddin Dr. Haroon ur Rashed, faculty members and students.

The ceremony will be graced by the Minister of State for Religious Affairs and Inter-Faith Harmony Pir Muhammad Amin ul Hasnay Shah as chief guest while Rector IIUI Dr. Masoom Yasinzai and President IIUI Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh will also grace the occasion.

Matters of mutual interest were discussed during the meeting while bilateral cooperation among Chinese universities and IIUI was also focused.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ding (who is also President of CICR, Council on Islamic Chinese Relations) said CICR was keen to develop areas of cooperation between China and the countries of the Islamic world. He lauded IIUI’s role for education of Chinese students while informing that he was also an IIUI graduate. Dr. Ding also invited President IIUI to visit China which he termed as a great opportunity for IIUI, Linyi University and CICR for collaborations.

Dr. Al-Draiweesh while thanking Dr. Ding for visit said IIUI is educating a large number of Chinese students which are large in number in comparison of any other country. He assured full support and cooperation regarding education of Chinese students while saying that IIUI would remain committed for strengthening educational ties with Chinese educational institutions.

At the end, Gifts, and a university crest was also presented to Dr. Ding by the President IIUI.

Old Campus bowlers restricted ICT to 82 in 8 overs while they won the mega match with three overs left in the game. The target proved way too small, as Raja Hamid with his splendid 62 runs in just five over outclassed ICT bowlers.

The closing ceremony of the tournament was graced by Director General AF&P Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja as Chief Guest. He announced 12 thousands cash prize for the winning team and a shield to make their victory memorizing. He also announced that tournament would be held on annual basis with the cooperation of IIUI administration.

“It’s a constructive activity and an omen of healthy environment at IIUI, Sports Section and organizers deserve admiration for organizing the tournament” said Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja. He advised that a hard-ball IIUI team of employees should be made which would take part in various competitions and become a source of university fame. “We, at IIUI, are like a team, we can add more pace if we further work hard to stay united and committed for university progress.

Both winner and runner up teams were given trophies and T-Shirts while University Staff Welfare Association President also announced separate cash prizes for both teams. A luncheon by Principal ICT to his team was also announced at the occasion.

Meanwhile, in inter-faculty cricket tournament Faculty of Basic and Applied Sciences (FBAS) has won the tournament and a grand final among Old Campus and FBAS would be played on Thursday. Both the teams are all set and committed to win the university cricket champion title.

Critical thinking Forum is an interdisciplinary forum, provides a platform for young researchers to probe into the contemporary critical theory. It was established in April 2011 as an interdisciplinary academic platform for young researchers.

Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja, while expressing his views in the ceremony said critical thinking forum has been an active platform for young researchers, he also assured full support for the activities of forum. DG AF&P also lauded the efforts of Dr. Munnaza and other group members of forum.

Addressing in the ceremony, Dr. Tamara Sonn discussed history and importance of critical thinking. Dr. Talib Sial in his remarks said CTF is group oriented quest for knowledge and collaborative activities from IIIRD and CTF would continue.

At the end, gift was presented by DG AF&P to Dr. Tamara on the behalf of forum and IIUI.

The activity was part of round of seminars being organized by the department, on environmental issues for faculty members and students.

The lecture was also attended by DG AF&P Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja, Dean Faculty of Basic and Applied Sciences Dr. Muhammad Sher, Chairperson department of Environmental Sciences Dr. Maleeha Asma, Dr. Shazia Jabeen, Anjuman Shaheen, Dr. Faiza Jan Iftikhar, other faculty members and students of the department.

Dr. Al-Draiweesh said Islam has stressed upon saving natural resources. “Islam has taught to preserve the environment 1400 years ago and now same has been taught by the science” he added. He quoted various Quranic verses and sayings of Holy Prophet (PBUH) regarding the protection of environment.

He also urged the participants to adopt the attitude of moderation in the life while saying “if we use water and meal in appropriate manner as guided by Islam we can contribute easily to save the environment and preserve it from pollution”. He also added that inappropriate use of water is against the teachings of Islam.

Dr. Al-Draiweesh said pollution of environment directly affects the society while he also mentioned human acts such as smoking and inappropriate garbage dumping attitude which result in emergence of diseases. President IIUI also advised that a specific series of programs regarding environment protection should be started, for which he assured of all possible support.

After the lecture, questions were asked from the students and those who gave correct answers were awarded with the cash prizes by the President.

At the end, a university crest was also presented by the department to the President IIUI.

The exhibition was organized during 26th cultural week of the university in a joint effort of Sadequain Art Society and Male Student Adviser office amid mega event cultural activities.

Along with President IIUI, the ceremony was also attended by Vice President Academics Dr. Mohammad Bashir Khan, DG (AF&P) Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja & Student Adviser Male Dr. Muhammad Tahir Khalily. The ceremony also witnessed renowned names in the field of art including Mr. Nasir Khan Seemab (Calligrapher), Sheikh Firdous (Artist) & Younis Roomi (Art Teacher at RAC).

Speaking on the occasion, President IIUI Prof. Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh appreciated the creative work of the young artists and encouraged them to display their work internationally. He also assured of full support to the students while urging them to continue such creative and constructive activities. Work of young artists was also admired by the Dr. Mohammad Bashir Khan and Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja.

During the ceremony, Dr. Al-Draiweesh was also presented a sketch by one of the students, Amrah Inam of department of Biotechnology, which she had prepared while using her creative sketch work abilities.

Organizers of the exhibition include Ch Waseem Sajjad, Syed Hassaan Ali Shah, , Nadeem Ahmed, Bismah Pari, Taha Arshad , Maryam Bakhtwar.

Following is the award list of the participants who won positions in various categories of the exhibition:

Participants Award List:

Second day of the conference was joined by the prominent figures including Vice Chancellor Allama Iqbal Open University Islamabad Dr. Asghar Ali Chishti, Dr. Abdul Rehman bin Ibrahim from Imam Muhammad Bin Saud University, Saudi Arabia, Dr. Mehmood Abdullah University Al-Mansora Egypt, Dr. Abdullah Bilqasim Mshrani from Saudi Arabia, Fahad Muhammad Adakhail from Australia, Muhammad Dawod Soofi from Ali Garh University India, and Dr. Raza abdul Wajid Amin from Bahrain and many others from Tunisia, Abu Dhabi, Jordan, Oman, Kuwait as well as across the country.

The second day was composed in parallel eight sessions in English, Urdu and Arabic respectively discussed the topics as the “family planning, its place in Islam, Karokari and its problems, domestic violence; legislation in Pakistan, under age marriage, dowry; practice and legislation, women initiated divorce and affects of social media on family life“ and other vital topics of the contemporary time.

It’s worth mentioning here that the Conference is being organized in collaboration with Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan and Imam Muhammad Bin Saud University, Saudi Arabia.

The third day (today) of the conference will be graced by the federal minister for Interfaith Harmony and Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousif, while Rector IIUI Dr. Masoom Yasinzai and President Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh will be guests of honor. The concluding ceremony will start at 12 noon, today.

This he said while briefing media persons regarding three-day long 1st Fiqhi international conference on “The Current Issues in Muslim Family Law, between Shariah & Law” to be organized by Faculty of Shariah and Law (FSL) of University from Tuesday. Director General (AF&P) Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja, Dean FSL Dr. Tahir Hakeem and university officials were also present on the occasion.

Dr. Al-Draiweesh said announcing Fatwa on basis of extremism was not an appropriate attitude and IIUI was committed to disseminate proper teachings of Islam to all the classes of society. He also apprised the participants regarding IIUI’s role in polio eradication in the light of teachings of Islam. He added university was mulling over establishing a Fatwa Institute by next year which would launch proper degree program for Fatwa.

He said foreign and indigenous scholars would discuss issues such as family planning, its place in Islam, Karokari and its problems, domestic violence and affects of social media on family life and other vital topics. He added that conference would start on May 13 at Faisal Mosque campus of the university where its inaugural ceremony would be attended by President of Pakistan Syed Mamnoon Hussain.

Conference is being organized by the university in collaboration with Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Imam Muhammad Bin Saud University, Saudi Arabia where jurists, lawyers, judges, doctors, and researchers in different disciplines such as Islamic sciences, pure sciences, social sciences, psychology, law, and Shariah from Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Tunisia, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, Kuwait, UK and across the country would participate in the conference to discuss important contemporary issues in Muslim family law.

Conference is aimed at highlighting objectives of Shariah in Muslim Family Law and to explore their comprehensive and supportive nature for pursuance of interests of the people and the countries, in this world and the hereafter and also to enrich research in contemporary issues in the field of Muslim Family Law.

More than 100 research papers would be presented in different sessions on important topics which would be presided and attended by Justice Fida Hussain Justice Federal Sahriat Court, Justice Shehzado Shaikh, Dr. Abdurehman Bin AIbrahim from Imam Muhammad Bin Saud University (KSA), Dr. Mehmood Abdullah from Egypt, Abdul Qasim Al Mashrani of Saudi Arabian ministry for education and training, Fahad Muhammad Al-Dakheel from Melbourne Australia. Muhammad Dawood Sufi from Aligarh University, Vice Chancellor Ripah International University Dr. Anis Ahmed and many other renowned figures.

The 1st Fiqhi Conference on the current issues in Muslim personal laws between Shariah and state legislations is intended as a three-day international gathering of academicians, practitioners, scholars, medical, and legal experts, to discuss and share the knowledge, expertise and experience on family-related issues in Muslim and non-Muslim societies.

This international conference will explore the key issues and the problems of family life and family laws in the light of Shariah, as well as various States Legislations. It is intended that the participants of the conference will discuss and analyze rulings of Shariah regarding the contemporary family institution, its dimensions, jurisdiction and its interaction with the existing legal systems in Muslim as well as non-Muslim societies.

Opening and closing ceremonies of the conference would be presided over by Rector IIUI Dr. Masoom Yasinzai and President IIUI Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh while Dr. Tahir Hakeem is secretary of the conference.

Newsletter, which is published in three languages Urdu, English and Arabic, is prepared in the background of 9th convocation of the university where more than 8 thousand students were awarded degrees in various disciplines. The letter is named as IIUI VOICE in English, Akhbar ul Jamia in Arabic and Pyam e Jamia in Urdu.

The ceremony was also attended by Vice President Academics Dr. Mohammad Bashir Khan, DG AF&P and Patron of newsletter Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja, Executive Director Iqbal Institute for Research and Dialogue Dr. Mumtaz Ahmed, Chief Editor Dr. Fazl-e-Rabbi Mumtaz, Editor Syed Muzammil Hussain Shah and other officers and employees of university.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Masoom Yasinzai stressed on making educational institutions exemplary while saying universities play vital role in society building. He said present newsletter would be proved as great source of informing various institutions and masses about the role of IIUI.

Dr. Al-Draiweesh said in the ceremony that importance of media can’t be neglected and it can be utilized for improvement in the field of education. While referring to the publication of newsletter, he directed the university officials to keep bringing such constructive activities in front of masses. He also talked on the role of teachers in the society while terming them as brain of society while he also urged that teachers must involve students in the creative and constructive activities.

Dr. Mumtaz Ahmed presented a brief overview of the newsletter while saying that it was a commendable efforts and example of a successful teamwork. He also lauded that the issue was prepared in three languages.

The ceremony was also addressed by Dr. Fazl-e-Rabi Mumtaz and Syed Muzammil Hussain Shah while team members of the newsletter were also awarded certificates in the ceremony.

The projects and models of the students displayed in two days open house were highly appreciated by the professionals, academicians and from Industry as well. On the occasion addressing the students Mr. Amjad appreciated the efforts and creativities of the students and emphasized the students that they must be very honest with their profession. He said students are the future of Pakistan; especially female students have great spark, talent and potential to contribute in every field of life. Mr. Aftab invoked students to get skills in modern technology to cope the need of the time as living in the age of advancement. He also urged students to be devoted in research work and keep their moral high to achieve the targets and goals.

The Concluding ceremony of the 5th open house was attended by the Dean FET Dr. Aqdas Naveed Malik, Dr. Saeed Badsha, Dr. Muhammad Amir and Dr. Afzal Khan, Engr. Saba Hameed, faculty members and students. At the end, prize and shields were awarded on best models and projects.

It was crux of the recommendations of a two-day international workshop on Business models in Islamic microfinance organized by International Institute of Islamic Economics (IIIE) of International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) in collaboration with Islamic Research and Training Institute (IRTI), Jeddah. The workshop was attended by more than 20 renowned experts and researches in Islamic economics and finance hailing from 7 countries and across Pakistan.

Rector IIUI Dr. Masoom Yasinzai addressing the closing ceremony as chief guest said Muslim countries should focus on youth training with a blend of necessary skills especially in the field of Islamic microfinance and Islamic banking. He said the workshop not only provided a vital platform for interaction between experts and students but it also allowed scholars to explore and discuss solutions regarding prevailing economic issues. He added that Islamic micro financing and Islamic banking was expanding rapidly. “Not only Muslims but non-Muslim countries are interested to adopt Islamic microfinance and Islamic banking” he said while mentioning recent visit of a Thai delegation to IIUI which requested to provide 70 trained Islamic Banking and microfinance students. Rector IIUI said a roadmap established in the light of Islamic banking and microfinance can be helpful to deal with the economic issues. He also lauded role of IRTI in Islamic banking and microfinance while saying its contribution for student training and assistance was commendable.

The workshop also recommended that Zakat, charity and donations can be utilized for economic stability while the Waqf institution can be proved as useful concept in the field.

The ceremony was also attended by Dr.Abellrahman Elzahi Saaid Ali, Islamic Economic Research Division (IRTI), Prof. Abdul Ghafar Ismail, Islamic Economic Research Division (IRTI), DG IIIE Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Yasin, Focal person of workshop Muhammad Khaleequzzaman, foreign and indigenous scholars and large number of students.

Dr. Abdelrehman while briefing about IRTI also termed the workshop vital. He said it provided valuable suggestions and proposals. He lauded working models presented in the conference. He also stressed upon implementation of recommendations.

Shields were also presented to scholars at the end of the ceremony.

On the last day of the workshop M.Mizanur Rehman from Nigeria, Kartiko Wibowo of Indonesia, Rashidah Abdul Rahman of Malaysia, Ali Mehmood,UK, and many other scholars addressed and presented models in microfinance.

This special issue named “IIUI VOICE” is in Arabic, Urdu, and English. Newsletter was published to highlight the special significance of 9th convocation of university in which special honorary Ph.D degree was conferred on Saudi King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz. The launching ceremony will also be addressed by number of scholars including Dr. Mumtaz Ahmed, Executive Director Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue and Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja Director General AF&P.

All faculty members are requested to participate in the lecture and to encourage their students to attend the lecture.

Construction of cafeteria near Ibn-e-Haytham Block would be built to facilitate the academicians of the university which will be completed within six calendar months.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Al-Draiweesh said that administration was also thinking to build a guest room in the cafeteria while he also admired the suggestions of making the building centrally air conditioned. On this occasion, Director General (AF&P) Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja, Director HR Tabriez Aslam, staff from Planning and Project department, university deans and other IIUI officials were also present on the occasion.

Later, President IIUI visited the site of link road from main campus to ICT. He directed on the occasion that work must be completed within the prescribed time while he also lauded the efforts of those who were working hard to make the construction projects completed in time. 24 feet wide road will be completed within six calendar months

Event, in both male and female campuses, separately, was inaugurated by the President IIUI Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh while VP academics Dr. Mohammad Bashir Khan also visited the stalls of projects and lauded the efforts of students.

Opening ceremony of the 5th open house was attended by President IIUI Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh as chief guest while Director female campus Dr. Farkhanda zia, DG AF&P Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja, Dean FET Aqdas Naveed Malik, Acting Chairperson FET Saba Hameed, FET faculty members and a large number of students were also present in the ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Al-Draiweesh said that Pakistani youth posses a valuable talent, it’s a hard working nation and we must equip our youth with contemporary research as it’s a vital contemporary requirement. “We should encourage innovative projects of the students and IIUI would keep striving to provide a high quality educational milieu to its students.” he maintained.

He lauded the projects presented by young students and urged them to give equal importance to theory and practical application of their degree subjects. President IIUI while lauding the hard work of the students of IIUI said “hardworking and bright students of IIU are proud of our institution”. He said such events are necessary to provide opportunities to talented students while he also appreciated the efforts of management on arranging successful open house.

Various projects of the students were appreciated by the experts of the field while they termed the effort as an immense platform for students to bring talent in front of professionals of the field.

“We worked hard and hope our project would grab the attention of professionals and it will be proved as a precious addition in the field of technology in Pakistan” said Muhammad Adeel Abbas a student who along with his group members prepared wireless digital advertising system which can easily be operated via an android app from anywhere.

Earlier, President IIUI visited the stalls in both campuses arranged by the students and appreciated the efforts and creativity of the students.

Open House will be concluded today (Thursday) in both campuses in separate closing ceremonies.

Engr. Amir Muqam, Advisor to the Prime Minister of Pakistan and Dr. Tariq Fazal Choudhry, MNA Islamabad will be chief guests of opening ceremony while Prof. Dr. Masoom Yasinzai, Rector, IIUI and Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al Draiweesh, President, IIUI will be the guests of honour for closing ceremonies at male & female campuses.

Students of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering will not only display their projects but also avail the opportunity to meet experts from Industry & Academia in the open house. The event will take place in male & female campuses simultaneously. It will be a great opportunity for all the industry professionals and students alike to take maximum benefit from this “Open House”.

The opening ceremonies at male & female campuses will be held on Wednesday at Jabir Bin Hayyan Block, Department of Electrical Engineering at 10 am and at Fatima Tuz Zohra Block, DEE at 11 am respectively while on Thursday, 8th May 2014 the closing ceremonies will be held in male & female campuses at 4 and 3 pm in the respective blocks of the faculty.

The workshop was jointly organized by International Institute for Islamic Economics (IIIE) of International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) and Islamic Research and Training Institute (IRTI) Jiddah Saudi Arabia.

The workshop commenced at Faisal Mosque Campus of the university on Tuesday and was addressed by the renowned economist and experts of Islamic Micro financing. Inaugural ceremony of the workshop was presided over by President IIUI Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh while Prof. Abdulg Ghafar Ismail, Islamic Economic Research Division, IRTI, Jeddah, Dr. Mumtaz Ahmed Executive Director Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue, DG Shariah Academy Dr. Tahir Mansoori, DG IIIE Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Yasin and other renowned experts and researchers in Islamic Economics from Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Brunei, Nigeria, UK and various Pakistani experts joined the ceremony.

President IIUI, in his remarks in the ceremony said Islam has a distinct economic system and it advises that rich and poor have equal prerogative on wealth. He added that Ribah creates inequality of wealth in the society while Islam rejects this practice. He said IIUI offers curricula that produce scholars with sound grounding of Shariah and Islamic values. He said that workshop is aimed at developing forum for institutes of Muslim world to join hands and explore ways of improving Islamic Micro financing. He praised the organizers of workshop while he also thanked foreign and indigenous scholars for attending the workshop.

Prof. Abdul Ghafar said the workshop would allow finding suggestions for stability of Islamic Micro financing while he also informed about the role of IRTI in Islamic micro financing. He also told about the symposium which will be held on May 8 on same venue. Prof. Abdul Ghafar thanked IIIE and IIUI for collaboration with IRTI while terming it as millstone in the field of Islamic micro financing.

Dr. Yasin also addressed the ceremony; he said that workshop is an important effort with an objective to discuss ways which would help the Muslim youth having training and gaining necessary skills in the field of Islamic micro financing. He added that workshop would also provide a platform to scholar for discussing issues of facilitating small investors according to prescribed guidelines given by Islam.

The first session of the conference was chaired by Dr. Mumtaz Ahmed while it was addressed by DG Shariah Academy IIUI Dr. Tahir Mansoori, Rose Abdullah of Brunei, Yulizar D. Sanrego of Indonesia. The second session on the day first was presided over by Dr. Asad Zaman, VC PIDE while Dr. Abdelrahman Elzahi of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Atiquzzafar Khan from IIIE, Dr. Adnan Aziz and many others also addressed the session. Second day’s first session will be chaired by Vice President IIUI Dr. Mohammad Bashir Khan while closing session will be graced by the Rector IIUI Dr. Masoom Yasinzai.

On the other hand, institute will also organize Islamic Economics and Finance Research Symposium for Graduate Students which will commence from May 8 and would be attended by famous scholars as well.

The activity was part of first round of seminars being organized by the department, on environmental issues for faculty members and students. It was attended by Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja Director General (AF&P) as chief guest while Shakeel Ahmad Ramay, Director Coordination and Compliance, Head Climate Change Study Center, Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), Islamabad and Sadia Shafiq Research Associate at SDPI delivered lectures on the issue.

“Every country sees climate change issue in its own perspective of interests which ultimately raises constraints in the way of an agreed global action plan for dealing with the challenges such as global warming and climate change”, said Mr. Ramay. He called for comprehensive policies and action plan by using the ways of adoption and mitigation for climate change with the help of developed nations. Responding to a question he elaborated that “no doubt changes in the climate have been witnessed since commencement of life but intensity and frequency of climatic shifts is alarming and compelling humans to deal with the issue.

Important environmental topics such as climate change threats, Pakistan’s role in international agenda on climate change, reasons of fatal diseases due to climate change and natural disasters were also briefly discussed by both of the speakers.

“Globally 15 to 20 countries are responsible for the global gas and radiation emission while Pakistan’s part in it is only 0.8% which is no doubt nominal, but still, country would have to be the part of actions against severe climatic changes and protection of glaciers as it is in vulnerable state of disasters such as floods in previous 5 years” said Sadia Shafiq. She added that Pakistan must remain part of drive regarding climate change as it’s a country which relies on agriculture and any climatic threat can be devastating for economy and progress of the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja urged to utilize natural resources wisely. “Solar power is an efficient and most required way of meeting our prevailing needs while it would also add country’s contribution towards reducing environmental pollution” he said while referring to utilizing the resources in appropriate manner. He lauded the activity and thanked the speakers for valuable lectures in the seminar.

Shields were also presented by Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja to the guest speakers at the end of the seminar.

According to details, International Workshop on Business Models in Islamic Microfinance from will start at Alama Iqbal Auditorium Faisal Mosque campus of the university which will be attended by the renowned economists and researchers across the country and various foreign experts as well. President IIUI Dr. Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh will address the inaugural session of the workshop while its first session will be chaired by the Vice Chancellor Riphah International University Rawal Pindi Dr. Anis Ahmed. The first session will be addressed by DG Shariah Acdemy IIUI Dr. Tahir Mansooi, Rose Abdullah of Brunei, Yulizar D. Sanrego of Indonesia. The second session on the day first will be presided over by Dr. Tahir Mansoori while Dr. Abdelrahman Elzahi of Saudi Arabia, Dr. AtiquzZafar Khan from IIIE, Dr. Adnan Aziz and many others would also address the session. Second day’s first session will be chaired by Vice President IIUI Dr. Mohammad Bashir Khan while closing session will be graced by the Rector IIUI Dr. Masoom Yasinzai.

On the other hand, institute will also organize Islamic Economics and Finance Research Symposium for Graduate Students which will commence from May 8 and would be attended by famous scholars as well.

The visit was aimed at monitoring the development projects being implemented by the university. The team members were given a detailed briefing which was also attended by Rector IIUI Dr. Masoom Yasinzai, Director General (AF&P) Gulzar Ahmed Khwaja, Director Administration Khalid Mehmood Raja, Director Finance Kurshid Alam, Acting Director (P&P) Dr. Amir Ishtiaq and other IIUI officials.

The monitoring team members were apprised regarding the progress of development of infrastructure of IIUI and construction of three hostel blocks. The team showed satisfaction and assured of all possible cooperation and support. They also gave guidelines for PC-1 submitted by the university and lauded the ongoing progress of the development projects.

Later, Mr. Mujahid khan visited the site and viewed the construction work of the hostel blocks. University shields were also presented at the end by the Rector IIUI to both members of monitoring team.

Dr. Sairah Alvi, Director Scientific and Medical Affairs, Biodesex, being key speaker of the seminar shed light on cancer treatments. She highlighted the importance of early detection of cancer by using biomarkers techniques while adding that by using such techniques and on time diagnosis can prolong the life. She elaborated types of lungs cancers and methodologies to cure the disease.

The seminar was attended by Rector IIUI Dr. Masoom Yasinzai, heads of male and female campuses of Bio-informatics and Biotechnology departments, other faculty members and a large number of students.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Masoom Yasinzai said IIUI is striving to be relevant to the prevailing needs of time and soon university would launch a Centre for Inter-Disciplinary Research in Basic Sciences. He thanked the guest speaker for delivering a useful lecture.

A university crest was also presented by the Rector IIUI to the guest speaker.

President focused on different aspects of prevailing circumstances which cultivate intolerance and chaos in the society. He emphasized on the requirement of dissemination the message of tolerance and harmony among people of the world. In the side line meetings with Vice Chancellors Dr. Al-Draiweesh made them aware about the IIUI as the key institution playing its role for building peace and stability. “IIUI has potential to provide solutions to the problems of Ummah as it has scholars who can guide government in complex issues” he maintained.

Dr. Al-Draiweesh said IIUI is an institution of global repute; University spread message of love, peace and brotherhood in its recent 26th cultural week. He urged to adopt attitude of moderation and discourage extremism and violence in the society. Dr. Al-Draiweesh said Islamic university heading towards with the environment of peace, tranquility as the core message of Islam.

The lecture was aimed at observing the difference between illusion and reality of media content, for which famous Turkish drama series was selected as case on which a lecture was delivered by Halit Ugurulu of turkey.

Prof. Dr. Naeem Jan was the chief guests of the seminar while Head of the Alumni office Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Anwar, Dean Faculty of languages and literature Dr. Munawar Iqbal Gondal, Dr. Ibrar Anwar and other faculty members and students.

Halit Ugurulu gave brief history of Ottoman Empire and stressed the media sometimes mislead towards the fact while saying same happened in the regard of Mera Sultan.

“This is the age of Media War, in addition, children have easy access to media which makes things sensitive if the contents are not appropriately produced according to facts” he said.

While introducing to the brief history of Ottoman Empire, Ugurulu said Muslims have forgotten their own heroes by blindly following western culture.

Referring to the character portrayal in the drama Mera Sultan he said Sultan Suleman was a man of principles who used to make rules in the light of Quran and Sunnah while his personality is being presented in the drama in very inappropriate manner.

Videos were also part of the seminar in which speaker elaborated how Mera Sultan and similar media contents are affecting lives in a negative way. He said such Tv programs are negation of basic facts regarding Muslim Rulers.