4-day International Conference on “Power Generation Systems and Renewable Energy Technologies” started today (Monday) which is being organized by the faculty of engineering and technology (FET) of the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI).
Prof. Dr. Javaid  Laghari, Chairman Higher Education Commission (HEC), was the chief guest on the occasion. Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui president IIUI presided over the ceremony while Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shujah Sayyed, Dean FET, IIUI, Prof. Kannan Jegathala Krishnan, Victoria University, Australia, Mirza Jahanzaib from Kingdom of Saudi-Arabia, Mr. Anwar Habib Pakistan, Pakistan nuclear Regulatory Authority, Ghulam Rasool Athar, Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission, Muhammad SadiqPakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority, Faisal Asfand, Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority, Zaffar M Khan Composite Materials R&D, Centre and Ijaz Ahmed Choudry, University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore,  presented their papers / abstracts in the conference.
Mrs. Parveen Qadir Agha Vice President IIIUI was also present on the occasion. Faculty members, administrative officers, employees and a large number of students attended the opening ceremony of the conference.
Dr. Javaid Laghari in his address said that the world is moving very fast towards renewable and alternative energies because of the fear of the gradual decrease of traditional sources of energy such as oil and coal. He added that it is very necessary for a nation dreaming to play a vital role in the community of the nations of the modern day world. Dr. Laghari stressed upon the need of adopting a viable and workable energy policy in the country to match with the requirements of the changing world around Pakistan. Dr. Laghari appreciated efforts of the Islamic University in this regard and congratulated its Faculty of Engineering and Technology for holding such a conference within three years of its inception.
Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui said that the conference offers an opportunity for engineers, scientists, professionals, policymakers, investors and other parties to review recent developments taking place all over the world on energy. The conference topics, beside hydro power, nuclear power and fossil fuel power, will also include subjects like: Energy applications of nano-technologies, green power energy, bio-fuels energy, sustainable energy, solar energy, wind power energy, clean energy, renewable energy as well as climate change effects on different types of energies. All these topics are important for development of the economy of a country.
Dr. Siddiqui further said that IIUI is the third largest university of Pakistan. It enjoys a special reputation among all other universities with its international character. With two campuses, comprising 704 acres in the heart of Islamabad, accommodates more than 22,000 students enrolled in 9 Faculties, 40 departments and over 90 academic programs. A thriving international population of more than 2000 students of whom about 800 are from China is also a unique feature of this university. With almost 10,000 female students on campus makes the university virtually the largest base in the country for female education. Over 5,000 students are registered in the programs running in the Faculty of Basic and Applied Sciences and Faculty of Engineering and Technology. Faculty of engineering and Technology- the organizer of this conference on the eve of university’s silver jubilee- is a rising star not only in the university but in the engineering fraternity with many new dimensions added to the overall structure of the Faculty in last couple of years. With department of Electronic Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering and now the Department of Engineering Management, the Faculty of Engineering has brought very good name to our university on national and international scene.
Dr. Ahmed Shujah Sayyed, Dean FET, IIUI said that the conference in Islamabad coincides 50th anniversary   of laser-an invention that began as a scientific curiosity, but which has transform into one of the most influential technological developments in human history. The global scientific community is also celebrating two-hundred and tenth anniversary of first electric battery invented by  Volta and 100 years of the discovery of distribution of an electric charge within the atom by Ernest Rutherford. He added that the International Islamic University has arranged this conference on this scientific topic to mark 2010 as its silver jubilee. 
Kannan Jeganthla Krishnan and Akhtar Kalam School of Engineering and science, Faculty of Health Engineering and Science Victoria University Melbourne, Australia spoke on Man-made Greenhouse Gases Trigger Unified Force to Start Global Warming Impacts Referred to as Climate Change their paper said that Global warming problems due to man-made green house gases (GHGs) appear to be a serious concern and threat to the globe. CO2, O3, NOx and HFC’s are the main greenhouse gases and CO2 is one of the main causes of global warming. CO2 is emitted from burning fossil fuels to produce electricity from power plants and burning of gasoline in vehicles and airplanes. Global greenhouse gases and its source in regions are discussed in this paper. This paper initially discusses the CO2 emissions and the recycle of CO2 in biodiesel. This paper mainly focuses on ‘Unified Force’ or self compressive surroundings pressure fore which is proportional to H2O in the sea to start global warming impacts referred to as climate change. This paper also point out the climate change and ten surprising results of global warming. Finally this paper suggests switching from fossil fuel technology to green energy technology like bio diesel which recycles CO2 and also Hydrogen Energy and Fuel cell Technologies which eradicates global warming impacts. The benefit of switching from fossil fuel to bio diesel and Hydrogen Energy Utilization include reduction of green house gas emission and pollution, economic independence by having distributed production and burning of bio diesel does not add extra CO2 to air that contribute global warming impacts.
Mirza Jahanzaib1 Riffat Asim Pasha and Zahid Suleman Butt Mechanical Engineering Department College of Engineering, Qassim University, KSA Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering Department UET, Taxila , Pakistan  Their joint paper was on “Cogeneration an Opportunity for Industrial Energy Saving” They said that the energy crisis in these days forces industry to find ways to cope with critical situation. There are several energy savings options which if properly planned and implemented would be beneficial both for industry and community. One way of energy saving is Cogeneration i.e. Combined Heat and Power. The paper reviewed the basic methods, types and then discussed the suitability of these options for specific industry
Ijaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Salim Abid Tabassum and Shabbir Hussain from University of Engineering and Technology Lahore spoke on “Energy Management Opportunities for Pakistan”. They said Pakistan is facing an average of 5000MW electricity shortfall. Energy demand is related with the GNP of the country. Energy capacity should be added at a rate as GNP is growing. In past this requirement was not properly adhered to and shortfall between energy demand and supply widened. This crisis of energy shortfall can be properly addressed by long-term and short-term measures by relying on sustainable energy. Changing the energy mix of Pakistan shall need heavy investment which country cannot afford at the present moment. One way to cope the situation is addressing adequately energy management issues in the industry. The paper also described the energy management opportunities to reduce the shortfall.
Dr. Muhammad Afzal, Chairman organizing committee of the conference also spoke on the occasion and gave details of the conference.

Prof. Dr. Javaid Laghari, Chairman Higher Education Commission (HEC), Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui, President International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) and foreign & Pakistani scholars/experts addressing at opening ceremony of the 4 day International Conference on “Power Generation Systems and Renewable Energy” at IIUI

Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui, President, International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) presenting university Crest to Prof. Javaid Laghari, Chairman Higher Education Commission (HEC) at opening ceremony of 4 days International Conference on “Power Generation Systems and Renewable Energy Technologies” at IIUI.

Left to right: Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui, President, International Islamic University (IIUI), Islamabad (IIUI), Prof. Dr. Javaid Laghari, Chairman Higher Education Commission, Dr. Ahmed Shujah Syed, Dean Faculty of Engineering & Technology IIUI and Mrs. Parveen Qadir Agha, Vice President IIUI at the opening ceremony of four day International Conference on “Power Generation Systems and Renewable Energy Technologies at IIUI”

Two-day ‘International Interdisciplinary Conference on Women Universities as Agents of Change’ ended here at the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI). Ms. Nosheen Saeed, Member National Assembly of Pakistan was chief guest on the occasion. Mrs. Parveen Qadir Agha Vice President IIUI also addressed the closing ceremony. Fine scholars from abroad, IIUI Faculty members, administrative officers, staff members of the university and a large number of students were present on the occasion.

Ms. Nosheen Saeed in her address said that the role of enlightened and educated women is critical to the development of any society. She added that Women universities do not merely impart education to women; it also empowers them to lead a respectable life in the society and then guide coming generations for a better future. Nosheen added that empowering a woman means strengthening her family, her community and her society. The conference also adopted some recommendations suggesting means and ways for further enhancement of women role in the society. The participants of the conference were of the view that a good nation can survive only if women are given proper opportunities to play their role. The participants also demanded more constructive role of women universities as agents of change in the society. They said that although change is imminent, it is better for our societies especially in the muslim world that the change should be positive and future oriented.

Here are some abstracts of papers presented by scholars on the second day of the conference: –

Dr. Shahid Siddiqui Ph.D. in Language Education from University of Toronto, Canada.: Abstract: Women, Education, and Change Simone de Beauvoir’s (1952) observation that ‘Women are not born, they are made’, alludes to the fact that gender is a social construct as it is the society that assigns roles, associates expectations, and offers opportunities to the male and female on unequal terms. The process of socialization owes to a number of social institutions including the educational institutions, schools, colleges, and universities. Education, thus, acts as a field of action and struggle (Bourdieu, 1977, 1984) to access the economic, cultural, social and symbolic capitals. Education is viewed as an important vehicle to bring change at individual and societal levels. It is considered to enhance the chances of economic development and at the same time acts as a precursor to social status, recognition and prestige. Unfortunately women have been deprived of this important tool of empowerment for a long time. In the Indo- Pak subcontinent educational opportunities for girls were scarce and those too at the elementary level. Almost all the educational institutions were dominated by the male faculty. Such institutions were engaged in the construction and perpetuation of the discourse which was essentially gender biased in nature. Women were excluded from the field of education and were not permitted to become part of the construction of ‘legitimate knowledge’, at educational institutions, that lays the basis of societal wisdom. To cope with the challenge of long accumulated gender inequality and to bring a meaningful change in the lives of women a multilayered approach is required on educational front. +Education institutions can play a central role in reclaiming the ideals of development, freedom, justice, and social change by empowering women and challenging the stereotypes of misrepresentation and forces of status quo.

Dr. Silvia Maier, Assistant Professor/Faculty Fellow at the Center for European and Mediterranean Studies in New York University: Abstract: From the Classroom to the Boardroom: Universities in the UAE as Effective Leadership Conduits for Emirati Women: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) are the undisputed leader in the realization of women’s rights in the Middle East and Gulf States. Gender equality is enshrined in the Emirati Constitution and ensuring women’s access to and full partaking in high-quality education programs following international standards/curricula on the primary to tertiary levels was deemed the key prerequisite for success. This paper, which forms part of a larger field-research based research project on women’s empowerment in the UAE, analyzes the academic programs and policies as well as the professional and social leadership development services of the three principal all-female institution of higher learning in the UAE Zayed University, the Dubai Women’s College and the Abu Dhabi Women’s College. Based on interviews with alumnae, career counselors, college administrators, faculty, researchers, representatives of the GWU, the UAE Businesswomen’s Council, and policymakers at various levels the UAE government, I seek to ascertain if and how these colleges have prepared their alumnae to assume key leadership roles in the UAE government, media, education and the private sector and to what extent the UAE success story can serve as a model for women’s empowerment in the Middle East and beyond.

Sariya Contractor PhD from University of Gloucestershire:  Abstract: British Muslim Women’s Narratives of Rights and Social Change: There is considerable socio-political debate about the roles and rights of Muslim women in both Muslim and non-Muslim countries. Often however, such discourses lack participation from Muslim women. This paper seeks to give voice to Muslim women in Britain, enabling them to participate in debates and discourses relevant to their lives and to their faith. It thus challenges mediated stereotypes and also furthers better understanding of Muslim women and Islam, leading in the long run to social cohesion. This ‘giving of voice’ to Muslim women was achieved using a feminist-pragmatist epistemological stance to empower Muslim women to narrate stories about their lived experiences, challenges faced, successes and future aspirations. This giving of voice to Muslim women led to new narratives of hijab, ‘Muslimwoman-hood’ and media representation among other things. It also led to new narratives of women’s solidarity, which while acknowledging the diversities among women also recognises their commonalities. Finally, based on Muslim women’s narratives it may be argued that although Islam is inherently emancipatory towards women, Muslim women are doubly marginalised: firstly by patriarchy within some Muslim and non-Muslim communities and secondly by pluralist, largely secular society that is suspicious of Muslim women’s religiosity. This paper will explore these themes in Muslim women’s narratives including their digital stories.

Dr. Zareen Abbasi & Noreen Bhutto Professor and Chairperson of the Department of Public Administration, University of Sindh, Jamshoro: Abstract: Importance of Female Education in the Changing Environment of Pakistan: The education set-up in Pakistan is mishandled and deregulated. The gender disparity in Pakistan is responsible for the country’s underdevelopment. In Pakistan, in spite of the lack of opportunities, women are trying hard to earn via beauty polar, vocational training centers, teaching on low wages at private schools, making bangles at home, embroidering and sewing at home, working in fields etc. The main purpose of this paper is that how development of female education in the country can play a very important role in training women to compete in the market and to earn recognition them in the society. In this regard it will analyze how the education sector needs to be reformed in order to provide women with the necessary skills required to secure employment. There is a great need to give a top priority to provide free education to the female at primary and secondary level especially in rural areas. There is a need to introduce innovative training programs that helps to enhance the caliber of the female in rural areas, by establishing vocational training centers, language learning centers and computer skill enhancement centers. There is need to implement educational quality enhancement plans by local government in particular areas.

Dr. Saleha Parveen Assistant Professor in the Department of Curriculum Development and Special Education, Faculty of Education, University of Sindh: Abstract: Women’s Empowerment through Education: Issues and Practices :Pakistani women have lower educational, social, and economical status in society than their male counterparts. The only reason behind this situation is illiteracy. The benefits of female education for women’s empowerment, gender equality and consequently national development are universally recognized. Therefore, the aim of writing this research paper is to analyze the problems/issues of female education with special reference to higher education and suggest ways to empower them through education, as they can contribute towards the national development of country. This study is a qualitative research, and will be delimited to the province of Sindh. Data will be collected through document analysis, structured questionnaire and interview schedule. For in depth understanding female teachers and administrators working at university level will be interviewed. Side by side data will also be collected from female students studying in the various departments of University of Sindh and its affiliated colleges. Targeted population will be studied through purposive random sampling. After collecting data it will be analyzed qualitatively and findings will be made accordingly. In conclusion suggestions will be given for the empowerment of women through higher education.

Dr.Gulrez Fatima Durrani Associate Professor at the Department of Chemistry, Gomal University, D.I.Khan. and Dr.Gulzar Hameed Post Doctoral fellowship by Korea Science & Engineering Foundation under 2003 KOSEF Post Doctoral fellowship program for foreign researchers. :Abstract:  Women Empowerment Through Higher Education It is the need of the modern era to educate women so that they can stand shoulder to shoulder with men. It will help to resolve the varied responsibilities imposed upon them by the circumstances. Only educated women can best discharge her responsibilities whether they are related to domestic family life or to her professional career. Educated women can understand the intricacies and complexities of these issues and better solve them by using their acquired knowledge and skill. This paper attempts to highlight such facts as how highly educated women can play their vital role to promote the economy, welfare of the society and bring relief to the masses, involving least cost and damage.

Dr. Samina Malik did her post doctorate in Education from the University of Coventry, United Kingdom: & Dr. Fauzia Janjua PH. D from NUML: Abstract: Impact of Women Education on Fertility: There have been numerous researches regarding the impact of education on fertility. It has been asserted by many that female education does have an impact on the demand for children. Educated women find difficulty in creating a balance between children bearing and work. This usually leads to a decrease in fertility which gives birth to an inverse employment-fertility relationship. Women involved in the economic activities fail to cater to the demands of the newly developed motherhood; which is looked upon as an obstacle in immaculate job performance. The present study aims at exploring the relationship between women education and fertility. All the females working in officers’ grade at International Islamic University Islamabad form the cohort of the case-study. Questionnaires and interviews were used as tools of data collection. Collected data was statistically analyzed and described. On the basis of the findings, an inverse relationship between educated women and fertility was revealed and was more pronounced in the case of women engaged in higher grade jobs. The study let to the findings that education acts as an important factor in lowering the rate of fertility which mostly operates through some intervening variables that determine the ideological demand for children, social prestige, costs of rearing and education.

Sadaf Ayub PhD scholar in the Department of Education at International Islamic University Islamabad: Abstract: Women Empowerment Through Educational Policies in Developing Countries: This paper is an attempt to understand the concept of women empowerment. It challenges our basic assumptions about power, achievement, and success. Women empowerment has five components: women’s sense of self worth, their right to have and to determine choices, their right to have access to opportunities and resources, their right to have the power to control their own lives, both within and outside the home; and their ability to influence the direction of social change to create a more just social and economical order, nationally and internationally. The main objectives of the paper are to study the concept of women empowerment and its components, to find out educational policy for female education in developing countries and explore female empowerment as the approach of breaking through the glass ceiling. Glass ceiling are the artificial barriers that deny women the opportunity to advance within their careers. All developing countries are considered for this study. But only SAARC countries are included in the sample of the study. The study is delimited to educational policies. Suggestions are made to ensure female empowerment in real sense so that they can break the glass ceiling and progress.

Dr Adnan Abd Rashid PhD from the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom: Abstract: Islamic Paradigms for Women’s Education and their roles to bring up Tawhidic Ummah: From the Islamic perspective, man and woman have not come to this world without any purpose in his life. Education is crucial for every individual Muslim in order to perform the mission ordained for them by God. From the Islamic point of view education is mainly to develop man and woman to cultivate his abilities and to seek virtue in accordance with the Din al-Islam. If we refer to the Hadith, “Every new-born child is born in a state of fitrah. Then his parents make him a Jew, a Christian or a Magian …” which signifies that the parent’s role for transmitting the knowledge of tawhid is as crucial as the physical needs of children such as feeding, clothing etc. This means that Muslim parents particularly woman may inculcate the way of the Sunnah along with the cultivation of other aspects of education. The effects of this education may lead Muslims to use their knowledge for the benefit of humanity, lead to development of the whole range of physical and spiritual human faculties, and result in society of balanced growth. This concept paper attempts to examine the efforts how woman’s education is important and how she is able to play her role to facilitate this type of education to bring up Tawhidic Ummah.

Adeela Rehman is pursuing her MS in Sociology from IIUI  & Dr. Rukhsana Hassan  is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Gender Studies Fatima Jinnah Women University The Mall Rawalpindi: Abstract: Women’s Empowerment and Islam: Dignity and Rights of Muslim Women: Women’s empowerment is always one of the core issues in Muslim societies. This paper highlights the issue of women’s empowerment in Muslim countries by reviewing the Islamic perspective regarding women’s status and analyzing the scholars’ intellectual input for the phenomena. Although Islam gives equality to men and women in their status, work and rights, the Muslim laws established by the Muslim countries do not give equality to all men and women. The reasons behind the lack of women’s empowerment are the diminutive knowledge and understanding of Islamic principles and misconception of Islamic perspective on women’s issues. Feminist scholars like Riffat Hassan, Amina Wadud and Fatima Mernissi, challenged the interpretation of Quranic verses that privilege men over women in terms of status and role. Most of the interpretations have been done by men and explain the verses according to their interests and precedence. Moreover, Islam and Quran itself never differentiates between male and female in an undue way. Islam believes that although men and women are diverse in their roles and responsibilities but inter-reliant on each other. The study shows that Islam has not disempowered women but the society, cultural norms and values, traditions and laws established in Muslim countries by their controversial monarchy are the hindrances in women’s empowerment.

Muzammila Akram Lecturer in the Department of Education Training at the Islamia University of Bahawalpur: Abstract: The Trend of Female Students of the Islamia University of Bahawalpur towards Religious Education: This study was designed to investigate the trends of female students of Islamia University of Bahawalpur towards Religious Education and to analyze their interest towards Islam. The study was delimited to the Faculty of Education, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur. One hundred (100) female students were selected by the procedure of systematic Random Sampling. It was the descriptive research design. The questionnaire was developed keeping in view the objectives of the study and to find out who follow the five basic beliefs of Islam; reciting Quran, observing Hijab, attending Islamic learning classes and arranging Duurse Quran. The Data was analyzed using statistical method of frequency distribution and percentage. The findings of study revealed that the maximum number of students have positive attitude towards the religious education and follow the basic five beliefs of Islam and feel secure in Hijab. Majority also showed interest in attending Islamic learning classes, if university arranges for them. Finally, it is recommended that university may arrange Islamic learning classes, and should encourage the students to read the Islamic books in order to develop interest and understanding about the Islam.

Zainab Moin lecturer of Islamic Studies at Fatima Jinnah Women University & Sadia Manzoor lecturer of Islamic Studies at Fatima Jinnah Women University: Abstract: Women Rights in Islam: A Study of Four Sunni School of Thoughts : Women rights are an integral part of the intellectual debates in the 21st century. Women are recognized by Islam as a full and equal partner of men. This is a descriptive, applied and analytical research elaborating the true spirit of Shariah in the light of four Fiqhi schools of thought i.e. Hanafi, Shafi, Maliki and Hanbali. Within a human rights framework, the right of women as a human being is balanced against other universal rights such as the rights to equality and dignity. The main purpose of the study is to examine how the rules made by Shariah are interpreted and considered responsible for gender inequalities. This paper also highlights the positive and negative influence of culture on religious teachings regarding women issues particularly related to women witnesses, women right to divorce (Talaq-tafweed) and women right of maintenance. The research also focuses on the analytical study of articles written by western writers about women rights in Islam. On the basis of data analysis it has been concluded that the discriminatory attitude with women is not the actual understanding of four Sunni schools of thought. 

Dr. Maria Jaschok, Director of International Gender Studies, University of Oxford, UK, Dr. Farida Abd Munaf from Malaysia, Dr. Adnan Adb Rashid Ph.D, Institute of Education, IIUM, and Mrs. Sylvia Maier, Asst. Professor, New York University, USA addressing on 2nd day of the International Interdisciplinary Conference on "Women Universities as Agents of Change" at the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI)

Two-day ‘International Interdisciplinary Conference on Women Universities as Agent of Change’ started at the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) on Friday 26th November,  2010.

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Mr. Qamar-uz-Zaman Kaira was the chief guest on the occasion. Prof. Fateh Muhammad Malik Rector IIUI presided over the opening ceremony while Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui, President IIUI and Mrs. Parveen Qadir Agha Vice President IIUI also addressed. Faculty members, administrative officers, staff members of the university and a large number of students were also present on the occasion. Some scholars from abroad are also participating in the conference.

Qamar-uz-Zaman Kaira in his address said the role of enlightened and educated women is critical to the development of any society. He added that Women universities do not merely impart education to women; it also empowers them. Mr. Kaira said that Empowering a woman means strengthening her family, her community and her society. Other salient features of his speech included: –

• when a woman is given the opportunity to both learn and work in an open environment, free of artificial inhibitions, then a woman realises her full potential to become a valuable and respectable resource for the society.
   
• As a harbinger of positive change, the Islamic University indeed has produced women graduates who are contributing to our society in multiple domains.
   
• The female scholars produced by IIU are bold, confident, and religiously astute having a pragmatic vision.
   
• IIU has produced religious scholars, economists, lawyers, engineers, linguists and experts in literary studies.
   
• This institution, therefore, stands as a proud symbol of women’s universities as agents of change.
   
• The present democratic government has a strong focus on women’s participation in the political, social and economic activities of our society, which can enrich the fabric of our society.
   
• In the political arena, women have proved their competence and worth.
   
• Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, was the first Muslim woman Prime Minister in the world.
   
• Dr. Fahmeeda Mirza is the first speaker of the National Assembly of a Muslim country.
   
• The Peoples’ Government has played a constructive role in bridging the gender gap, which enhances a balanced functioning of society.
   
• No doubt, a foremost tool for women’s empowerment is education and we are making constant efforts to empower the women of Pakistan through education, awareness and job opportunities.
   
• This international conference has provided us with an opportunity to have a candid discussion and debate on the major issues of women and education, and what needs to be done to harness the potential of both.
   
• I congratulate the Female Campus of the International Islamic University for organizing such an important event and welcome all the speakers, from aboard as well as from within Pakistan, for making an effort to bring change through their valuable ideas.
   

Concluded Qamar-uz-Zaman Kaira

Prof. Fateh Muhammad Malik Rector IIUI in his presidential remarks said that Islam is torch bearer of women rights. The Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) gave special attention and distinction to women by acknowledging their role. Fateh Muhammad Malik added that the Holy Prophet was supported firstly by Hazrat Khadija (R.A.) and then by Hazrat Fatima (R.A) in may ways. Fateh Muhammad Malik said that Hazrat Fatima (R.A) was symbolized by Allama Iqbal in his poetry as a role model for women of the world. Prof. Malik said that the International Islamic University is marching towards achieving the goal of women empowerment in accordance with Islamic teachings. 

Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui President IIUI in his welcome address said this conference is being held as a part of Silver Jubilee celebrations so as to honour and show to our community the success of this university which is growing in terms of female enrollment. The female students come from all parts of the world, representing 45 countries, particularly China and Central Asia. The IIUI thus brings together various ideas and experiences pertaining to the pragmatic utilization of women potential and their pivotal role in development of humanity as whole. He said that during the past 25 years the university has produced around 7,000 female graduates. In our recent convocation, the female students obtained most of the Gold Medals of the Faculties.

He further said that the inception of a separate female Campus in IIU was rooted in a vision to provide women with avenues for development, advancement and empowerment. With the independent and academic research and administrative setup, providing the space for the professional and intellectual development of the women, IIU caters the traditionalist mind sets of vast population. This all-girls environment to receive higher education is becoming popular especially in such subjects as Management Sciences, Computer Sciences and Engineering.

Mrs. Parveen Qadir Agha Vice President IIUI in her address gave details of the conference. She said that empowerment of women was main factor behind holding this conference.

Eminent scholars from other  universities of Pakistan, UK, USA and Malaysia presented key note addresses on the first day of the conference. Details of the topics discussed are as under: –

Prof. Dr. Anees Ahmad Vice-Chancellor of Riphah International University, Vice-Chairman Institute of Policy Studies and meritorious Professor of Islamic and Comparative Religions. Abstract: Islam and Empowerment of Women Between Tradition and Change: Empowerment of women has been linked with economic development in the developing as well as the so called developed world. The UN has also shown its concern on empowerment of women through its various working groups. However the issue needs to be studied in its wider context. The social price of economic involvement of women too needs to be properly examined and evaluated. This paper will try to look into conceptual foundations of women empowerment and its implications for a holistic social development. Effort will be made to look into Islamic sources and understand relevance of Islamic teachings with the topic in contemporary social and economic context.

Dr. Nor Faridah Abdul Manaf Associate Professor in the Department of English Language and Literature at the International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. Abstract: Women’s Universities in the Muslim World: History, Challenges and Prospects :Women’s access to education in Islam is a God-given right which is often abused by powerful religious establishments in a number of Muslim societies. As the world becomes smaller through globalization and digitalization, it becomes more critical of ways women, especially Muslim women, are treated not only in the Muslim world but also, around the world. However, this paper aims to examine the development of selected women’s universities in the Muslim world. It will look at the history, challenges and prospects of these selected women’s universities and the main objective is to gauge how much achievement and impact have these universities made on their female graduates and what kind of contributions Muslim women have provided to their countries. The paper also explores challenges faced by these women’s universities and discusses prospects and opportunities for empowering female population in Muslim countries.

Dr. Maria Jaschok Director of International Gender Studies Centre, University of Oxford, United Kingdom Abstract: Sources of Authority of Female Leadership in Islam female ahong and qingzhen nüsi (women’s mosques) in China: The main factors which have contributed to the enduring longevity of female ahong-led women’s own mosques in predominantly, but not exclusively so, Hui Muslim communities in central China, lie in the historical needs of a besieged Chinese Muslim diaspora for women’s active participation in a collective project of Islamic revival and Muslim survival. Developments over time led from learned women’s ad hoc roles as religious instructors of girls and women, guided by fathers and husbands, to the institutionalization of female leadership in the early 20th century in both teaching and ritual guidance. From the first beginnings, the active role of women was controversial and, as on-going internal dissension in the Chinese Muslim Sunni community over the concept of bid’a demonstrates, women’s public visibility in organized Islam remains divisive. The presentation asks how women-led Islamic institutions could last into the current century. It is argued that female ahong as the most evolved expression of women’s role in organized Islam in China exist because their role is embedded in the physical presence of women’s own spaces as vital conditions of the exercise of female authority. This continued legitimacy of Muslim women’s own traditions of worship, education and congregation is in turn indebted to both a growing assertion of a Chinese Muslim identity within the umma as well as to support by the Communist Party/State, conferring authority by legal and administrative means. The unique features of this case study suggest the imperative for context-specific scholarship to document innovative local adaptations of universal ideals.

Prof. Dr. Yasmin Nilofer Farooqi Professor, Department of Applied Psychology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Abstract: Psychological Problems of Pakistani Women: This paper addresses psychological problems of Pakistani Women and the role of diverse agencies of socialization in creating gender inequality and discrimination. It further discusses the ideological, cultural, and sociopolitical resistance to the process of unfolding of human rights mission for Pakistani females. The author further suggests psychological interventions to prevent gender discrimination and violence against women of all age groups in order to empower them in developing countries like Pakistan.

Prof. Dr. Mumtaz Akhtar & Tahira Kalsoom (Ph.D Scholar), Principal Alfauz International College for Girls Jauharabad. Abstract: Endorsing Critical thinking in Muslim women through Critical Pedagogy of Language Education: The study examines effects of critical pedagogy on the development of critical thinking through teaching English essay writing. The research also provides guideline to English Language Teachers to endorse critical thinking in language learning and to teach language for reasoning. Quantitative and Qualitative data were collected from English language students to test the hypothesis (by incorporating critical thinking through English Essay Writing promotes reasoning skills among the students). Descriptive Statistics, Paired Sample t-test and graphic representation were executed for the analysis of data. A marked difference (41.26 Mean Score) was measured in the performance of English language teachers in the result of critical thinking instructions into the composition of English Essay Writing. A significant difference was measured between Post-test I and II among the students. The results signify that by incorporating critical thinking in teaching English Essay Writing promotes reasoning skills among the subjects. The research suggests replacing the old cycle of transmission pedagogy with critical thinking pedagogy in language education a vehicle through which the students gradually discover themselves in the process of language leaning, and develop the cognizance of appropriate language to reason.

Khush Funer Murtaza, Professional Development Centre North, Aga Khan University, Abstract: Women’s empowerment through higher education: Theory and action: The growing social awareness across the globe has brought a number of issues to the fore among which gender equality and empowerment of women are very significant. Discrimination against women in the form of male-female differentiation constitutes the core of the gender-biased system. Education is the biggest liberating force and the rise in the levels of education which nourishes progressive outlook has affected a sea change in the attitudes and thinking pattern of the people. However, political empowerment of women has to be preceded by economic empowerment which is made possible through skills imparted by higher level education. The scheme of higher education through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in Gilgit- Baltistan has transferred real economic power in the hands of women and has considerably reduced their dependence on men. The higher level learning is helping them to learn skills and play an effective role in society. This paper attempts to illustrate the current status of women in Higher Education in Gilgit-Baltistan. It also relates the success stories on the impact of Higher Education programs through the experiences of AKDN. Further it highlights the lessons learnt and challenges faced in the process, and concludes with a suggestion for a possible and preferable way forward.

Tahira 0Naudhani, Assistant Professor,  Department of Social Work , University of Baluchistan, Quetta. Abstract: Reasons of illiteracy among the rural women of Balochistan (A case study of district Musakhail:

This study explores the reasons of illiteracy among the Balochistani women specifically those residing in the rural areas of Balochistan province. It contains useful information about the educational and the social status of illiterate Balochistani women in a rural society. The researcher has examined thoroughly the socio-economic factors and also the religious context causing the illiteracy among rural women. Data was gathered by sampling technique, questionnaires and focus group interviews from the District of Musakhel. It was concluded that education is a valuable asset for the nation at the present time and an illiterate society cannot achieve successfully the peak of the socio – economical development. Only education and especially female literacy can serve as an important avenue for the improvement of societal conditions and status of the general masses.

Dr. Sarwet Rasul is a PhD in Linguistics. Abstract: Empowerment of Pakistani Women Parliamentarians: Perceptions and Reality: Women’s access to higher education is considered a tool of their empowerment in the intellectual, organizational, social, economic, administrative and familial spheres. Ideally speaking empowerment is an active multidimensional process which should enable women to realize their full identity and powers in all spheres of life including greater autonomy in decision making, greater ability to plan their lives, and greater control over the circumstances that influence their lives. However, these theoretical assumptions related to empowerment are questioned when it comes to the beliefs, customs and practices prevalent in real life. In this context the present paper explores how far Pakistani Women Parliamentarians are empowered in their professional and personal lives. Since politics is a domain of power, it is generally perceived that women politicians enjoy a great autonomy in different spheres of their lives. The gap, if any, between perceptions and realities related to the lives of 8 to10 women Parliamentarians is explored through the use of interviews as a tool of inquiry. It is expected that the paper will provide fruitful insights into the issues of gender and empowerment within the personal and professional spheres of women parliamentarians.

Dr. Munazza Yaqoob the Incharge of the Department of English, Female Campus, International Islamic University Islamabad. Abstract: Education for social change: An evaluation of feminist pedagogy: Drawing upon Marxian critique of ideological educational practices, which serve the interests of dominant groups, feminist pedagogical models are grounded in the vision of social change. Feminist pedagogy is potentially emancipatory as it recognizes the potential of education for social change. So it is regarded as critical pedagogy which can be understood within the framework of critical theory. Its aims are to train women to recognize and evaluate their power and position in the existing social structures, and develop critical thinking skills to perceive contradictions, injustices and oppressions in society. It attempts to give new definitions of power and knowledge. Various teaching strategies through which feminist pedagogy works to achieve its aims include telling personal stories, listening to and understanding other’s narratives, bringing personal experiences in classrooms and connecting them with contents, interdependence, dialogues and discussions, multiple interpretations of issues , and critical reflection on the information presented by teachers. This paper attempts to evaluate aims, objectives, and teaching strategies of feminist pedagogy in order to find out whether and how it can be regarded as a revised educational model with transformative potential to empower the marginalized and bring social change.

Saiyma Aslam lecturer, Department of English, International Islamic University Islamabad. Abstract: The Role of Women Universities in Development of the Self: This paper examines the role Pakistani women universities play/can play in development of the Self by critically analyzing multiple jeopardy Pakistani women are subjected to, developing multiple consciousnesses of the oppressive situations and enabling multiple mediations to effectively counter resistances. The age of globalization especially necessitates investigation of new influences and pressures that require multiple mediations by women around the globe. The potential women universities hold in development of an independent, creative, and critical stance needed for development of the Self needs to be explored. Certain issues to be addressed in this regard are: What potential women universities hold for destabilizing patriarchal constructs and expanding the opportunities for women scholars and professionals? How far women universities prepare/facilitate women to transcend traditional gender constructs? What role Pakistani women universities play in countering the increased social pressures women experience in the age of  globalization? To what extent women universities can initiate and consolidate an indigenous feminist awakening that takes in view the entirety of socio-economic and political changes in Pakistan? How best to synchronize female empowerment with a positive social change? The paper suggests the need for Pakistani women universities to continually evaluate multiple pressures women daily face to enable women actively tackle existing as well as emergent challenges.

Nasreen Akhtar & Sameera Ahmad MPhil in Psychology: Abstract: Perception of Professionals towards Women Employment in Pakistan: The present study investigated the gender differences in the perception of  professionals towards women employment in Pakistan. Qualitative approach  was adopted to explore the phenomenon in depth. For this purpose, two focus groups consisting of professional men (n=8) and professional women (n=6)  were formed including participants belonging to education, health and banking industry. Focus group protocol consisting of 10 broad questions based on literature reviews was planned. Interpretative henomenological analysis (IPA) was used to analyze the data. Results indicated that there was consensus on the point that the first job of a woman is to take care of their families. However both men and women professionals agreed that women employment is a source of empowerment as it raises their confidence, develops the feelings of independence, grooms their talent and helps in meeting financial constraints. The study also found that both the groups also had certain reservations regarding women employment due to factors differing according to gender of the participants. It was concluded that both the groups had an agreement on the point that the trend of women employment is becoming positive and will be more positive in future. The study has important implications for educationists, employment agencies, government and non government agencies working on women issues.

Rabia Iftikhar & Abida Sarwar is currently pursuing her PhD in clinical psychology from Government College University, Lahore.  Abstract: Marital Coping Among Single and Dual Career Couples: The present study examined the relationship between marital coping among single and dual career couples. The sample consisted of  single career and dual career couples. For the assessment of marital coping, Marital Coping Inventory of Bowman (1990) consisting of five subscales (conflict, introspective self blame, positive approach, self interest, and avoidance) was used. It was hypothesized that dual career couples will have better marital coping as compared to single career couples. The results showed a significant difference in the marital coping among single and dual career couples. It was found that married men have better marital coping as compared to married women. Moreover, the findings indicated that middle class couples have better marital coping as compared to lower and upper class. Similarly, there was a significant difference between couples living in nuclear and joint family system. The results also showed a significant difference in the marital adjustment of couples with different educational qualifications.

Malik Naseer Hussain & Dr. Ayaz Afsar Dr. Ayaz Afsar is working as an Asst. Professor in the Department of English, Male Campus, International Islamic University Islamabad. His areas of research include Applied Linguistics, Phonetics, Narratology and Postcolonial literature. He has several international publications to his credit and is also supervising several PhD and MS scholars. Malik Naseer Hussain is pursuing his PhD Linguistics from International Islamic University Islamabad. He is working as a Lecturer/HOD (English) Fazaia College Chaklala, Rawalpindi. He has participated in different conferences and has published two articles in “KAWISH”, a yearly educational magazine of Fazaia College Chaklala. Abstract: Gender Representation in English Language Textbooks at HSSC Levelin Pakistan: This study of gender representation aims at analyzing the four English language textbooks of HSSC classes approved by Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education Islamabad, and all the educational boards of the Punjab. The starting point of the study is that gender equality and equity are among the major concerns of the world today. But the current practices in education sector in Pakistan do not speak for it. The study is conducted in two parts by employing a feminist perspective. The first part uses the qualitative approach of Kabira & Masinjila (1997) framework of gender analysis. This model looks at the textbooks by raising a series of questions that expose the gender responsiveness of a text. The questions are concerned with five categories viz. actions of characters, locus of their activities, focalization of characters, their power relations and the use of language. The second part uses the quantitative approach by counting all characters, and ultimately determining the ratio of characters/references of both genders in the textbooks. The results of this study show that the representation on gender basis is unequal. The study recommends that textbooks should be reviewed and gendered balanced texts should be included in the English language syllabi of HSSC classes.

Sofia Hussain and Amal Sayyid, Lecturer and Amal Sayyid is a Research Associate in the Department of English, Female Campus, International Islamic University Islamabad. Abstract: Current Trends in Gender Studies in Pakistan versus Representation of Women in Pakistani Fiction in English: A Comparative Study: This paper attempts to investigate the recent researches conducted by various departments of Gender Studies in Pakistan in order to explore the major issues concerning gender roles in our society. It further aims at evaluating the depiction of gender roles in contemporary Pakistani fiction in English to determine if our fiction presents a realistic picture of the cultural fabric of our society or is it otherwise. Since literature is a significant tool to comprehend the social and cultural foundation of a society, so the present paper aims to analyze contemporary fiction in English in order to see if it is an authentic presentation of the indigenous gender roles keeping in mind the sociocultural perspective of our society. The study will be limited to Gender Studies departments of QAU, AOIU and FJWU. Data will be collected from these departments to scrutinize the trends in the recent researches conducted during the past 15 years. Fictional works of Kamila Shamsie, Mohsin Hamid, Bina Shah, Uzma Aslam Khan etc will be analyzed in depth to explore whether representation of women by these authors corresponds to the issues highlighted in recent gender studies researches in the above mentioned departments.

Sonia Irum, Uzma Abid and Khola Majeed are working as Research Associates in the Department of English, Female Campus, International Islamic University Islamabad. Abstract: Beauty and the Beast: Fixation of identity in Woman at Point Zero byNawal El Saadawi and Eleven Minutes by Paulo Coelho: This paper attempts to explain how gender constructs the differential authority men and women have over the  socioeconomic determinants of their lives. The paper endeavors to explore the myth of hiding a woman in a golden cage of isolation where her voice is not recognized around the world just for the fact that she is Other, Weak and in worst cases Inanimate. Literary works produced by a Muslim writer i.e. Woman at Point Zero (1979) by Nawal ElSaadawi and the non Muslim world i.e. Eleven Minutes (2003) by Paulo Coelho will be selected in which representation of woman will be scrutinized. The fragmentation of identity of the female, the myth of evil breeding from female, female as a desired calamity and a painted ill will be analyzed in the works produced by these writers. Gender development theory in the field of Psychology will be taken as support to highlight how family and peers are influential in fixing the identity of a female not as an individual but as an object of the male gaze. This automatically sets another binary opposition as beauty and the beast respectively where the latter is always on a quest to cage the former.

Muhammad Naeem Akhtar (Deputy Director-TEVTA) Abstract: Factors Affecting Women Participation In Higher Education In Pakistan:  Pakistan is a developing country having a population of approximately 160 million. Almost half of the population comprises of females. It is very unfortunate that a majority of the female population is neither going for formal education nor intends to get higher education. The literacy rate in our country is much lower amongst the female vis-à-vis male population. Gender imbalance is quite visible in the institutes of Higher Education in the country. This paper addresses numerous factors which affect women participation in higher education in Pakistan. These include social, political and economic factors. After compilation of data and consolidation of information, Time series analysis was carried out by the researchers. Subsequent to thorough and threadbare research the variables like the average age of marriage of females, structural transformation, cultural barriers, employment trends, poverty head count ratio, road density and age dependency ratio have been identified as major factors affecting women participation in higher education in Pakistan. This study concluded that the female population should feel encouraged to come forward and share in the progress and development of the country by getting higher education and this would only be happened if attitudinal changes in the society be promoted.

Mr. Qamrar-uz-Zaman Kaira, Federal Minister for Information addressing a 02 days International Interdisciplinary Conference on "Women Universities as Agents of Change" at the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI), Prof. Fateh Muhammad Malik, Rector IIUI and Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui, President IIUI also seen in the picture

Mr. Qamrar-uz-Zaman Kaira, Federal Minister for Information, Prof. Fateh Muhammad Malik, Rector, International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui, President IIUI, Dr. Anees Ahmed, Vice Chancellor, Riphah University, Mrs. Parveen Qadir Agha, Vice President IIUI and other renowned speakers from abroad addressing 02 days International Interdisciplinary Conference on "Women Universities as Agents of Change" at the Islamic University (IIUI).

Prof. Dr. Javaid Laghari, Chairman Higher Education Commission (HEC), shall be the chief guest at the opening ceremony of the conference to be held on Monday, 29th November, 2010 at 10:00 am at the Faisal Mosque Campus of the university.

Giving details of the conference Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shujah Sayyed, Dean FET, IIUI told that:

The response on the conference both nationally and internationally is huge. With more than 125 papers, the conference would provide a unique platform to Pakistani academic community to interact with scientists, engineers and policy experts from within the country and globally. The conference is programmed in such a way that Keynote, Contributory and Poster presentations will be running in singular and parallel sessions to attract a larger audience. There are number of foreign Scholars/Experts participating in PGSRET conference to share their know-how with our Pakistani participants and Scholars. We have received the papers from Scholars coming from Nigeria, Jordan, Egypt, UK, USA, Libya, China, France, Australia, Cameroon, Iran, Malaysia, Ukraine, Tajikistan, etc.

Dr. Shujah Sayyed added that the foreign and Pakistani experts have been invited to deliver their Keynote talks, contributory lectures and poster presentations on the conference topics. This conference offers an opportunity for engineers, scientists, professionals, policymakers, investors and other parties to review recent developments taking place all over the world on energy. The conference topics beside hydro power, nuclear power and fossil fuel power will also include subjects like: Energy applications of nanotechnologies, green power energy, bio-fuels energy, sustainable energy, solar energy, wind power energy, clean energy, renewable energy as well as climate change effects on different types of energies. All these topics are important for development of the economy of a country.

Dr. Shujah hoped that this Conference on Energy will promote industry-university coordination and will set a futuristic course of action between the two identities. This gathering will also help for the exchange of know-how, new ideas, interaction of experts and scholarly discussions to highlight various achievements in the energy fields. The energy industry, the power generating companies, organizations and many Institutions are joining us in this conference. The International Islamic University also provides academic back-up to the industrial & commercial organizations; hence this event will provide a good opportunity of exploring possibilities of strengthening this back up and an active collaboration of IIUI with all types of energy organizations/industry.

Dr. Shujah further maintained that today, the world’s oil, gas and coal energy supply has proven to be contributors to our environmental problems. Since exhaustible energy supplies (oil, gas and coal) are limited, there is an urgent need to focus attention on development of alternate and renewable energy sources plus their use with the efficient technologies. With increasing scope, scale, research and development the costs of renewable energy technologies will come down. It is estimated that renewable energy could contribute at least half of all electric power in large economies in the future. The renewable energy will drive world’s economic system, its present share rose to about 15 to 20% in 2008 with an estimated investment reaching to the tune of USD 100 to 130 billion.

Dr. Shujah was of the view that the conference lectures, expert discussions, presentations and latest R&D findings on different power generation systems and technologies will help our societies in Asia, and particularly in Pakistan, to get rid of energy crises and power shortages. The experts will help us during the proceedings of the conference and during the meetings with solutions on our industrial and domestic energy production goals. The following are the major topics of the conference:

1. Hydro power generation systems and technologies,
2. Renewable Energy,
3. Solar power generation systems and technologies,
4. Energy Systems and Technology,
5. Fossil fuels power generation systems and technologies,
6. Nuclear power generation systems and technologies,
7. Energy Applications of Nanotechnology,
8. Other topics related to energy and power generation

About the FET he said that it is the youngest faculty in the university which is coming up as a rising star not just in the university but on national and international scene. The faculty has achieved many milestones in a short time with a very notable engagement on the forefronts of international research. The new experiments done in the faculty as regard the teaching, research and the utilization of hands-on knowledge in variety of engineering areas are exemplary to many other institutions in Pakistan. Hosting this international activity is a historic event, which will certainly put the university on international scientific scene. Concluded Dr. Ahmed Shujah Sayyed, Dean FET, IIUI.

This came through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) which was signed by Maria Sultan Director General, SASSI and Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui President IIUI. The MoU further adds that both sides shall hold conferences, seminars and workshops and extensive lectures on national and international level. Both sides also shall conduct joint foreign and local visits of the academia.

Speaking on the occasion Maria Sultan and Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui said that strategic studies are no longer limited to some governmental organizations instead now these areas are being dealt by the universities and institutes like SASSI. They added that the IIUI and SASSI are now opening this fields for general study by the students.

Deans and directors of the IIUI and ambassador Sarwar Naqvi of SASSI administration were also present on the occasion.

Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui, President, International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) and Ms. Maria Sultan, Director General Asian Strategic Stability Institute, Islamabad signing an MoU at the Islamic University (IIUI)

Cultural Councilor of Iran on this occasion appreciated IIUI’s efforts and assured full support of his country to the university and hoped that it will be soon initiating efforts for MoUs of cooperation between the IIUI and the Iranian universities.

Agha Ali Noori Cultural Councilor of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Pakistan called on Prof. Fateh Muhammad Malik, Rector, International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI).

It is worth mentioning here that the IIUI task force has so far distributed relief in cash and kind of above 10 million rupees in all four provinces and Azad Jammu & Kashmir. This Task force was established by Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui President IIUI soon after 2010 flood.

Mrs. Parveen Qadir Agha, Vice President, International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) distributing Eid Gifts to Flood affected children at Noshera		Members of Task Force Team of the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) putting the mehndi to flood affected children after distributing Eid gifts at Noshera. Mrs. Parveen Qadir Agha, Vice President IIUI also seen in the picture.
Mrs. Parveen Qadir Agha, Vice President, International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) distributing Eid Gifts to Flood affected school children at Noshera		A group Photo of Mrs. Parveen Qadir Agha, Vice President, International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) and other members of Task Force Team (Female) with flood affected school children during distributing Eid Gifts at Noshera before Eid

Principal Librarian, Mr. Mohammad Rafiq welcomed the participants and briefed them about the Library. The resource persons, Mr.Abbass Gannai (Manager IRC) and Mr. M. Obaid-ur-Rehman (Asst. Manager IRC) gave orientations on Electronic resources, services, technical operations, I.T applications and services. The participants appreciated the services being offered in the University Library.

Renowned scholar Dr. Rafee ud Din Hashmi addressing on first day of of a two day seminar on “Iqbal and the Muslim World” at Da’wah Academy Islamabad. Left to right Professor Fateh Muhammad Malik, Rector IIUI, Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui, President IIUI and Dr. Sajid ur Rehman Director Da’wah academy IIUI are also sitting on the stage.

The title of the talk was “Opportunities with Photo Sciences for Energy Research”. The talk covered the need and importance of research in the areas of alternative energy recourses including solar energy. Prof Zahid Hussain informed the audience that only 10% of the sunlight coming to the earth in just an hour can fulfill the energy requirements of whole world. The problem is to find suitable high efficient materials for solar cell applications. He pointed out that the processing of conventional solar material silicon is extremely expensive. It is high time for us, especially for the scientists of developing countries to work in two parallel directions, first is to find ways to reduce the processing cost of silicon and second is the research of other high energy efficient materials.

Dr. Hamid Saleem, Director General NCP introduced his center that was established on the pattern of Abdus Salam International Center for Physics, Trieste, Italy. He briefly informed about the experimental facilities that are available to the researchers of the country and about the research activities of various research groups in NCP. Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed, Dean FET, IIUI gave a presentation highlighting the vision of IIUI regarding the research areas in the field of Science and Engineering presently being persuaded by the faculty and research students.

President IIUI, Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui thanked Professor Zahid Hussain for delivering a lecture on a highly technical subject in such a way that it was appreciated by all the participants having different backgrounds. He emphasized that the close cooperation among the science and engineering faculties of IIU and other national and international organizations should be strengthened.

Prof. Dr. Ehsan Ullah Khan, Dean FBAS presented vote of thanks. He hoped that more useful and productive collaboration of IIU with LBL will be established through Prof Zahid.

Prof. Zahid Hussain, Senior Official of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, USA addressing a seminar on “Opportunities with Photo Science for Energy Research” at the IIUI

Task Force Team of the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) distributing goods among flood affectees at Kail, District Neelum Azad Jammu & Kashmir

Fateh Malik and Anwar Siddiqui attend ceremonies

The International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) dedicated 9th November, to remember Iqbal at its all faculties and departments. Prof. Fateh Muhammad Malik Rector IIUI presided over two separate ceremonies at male and female campuses of the university while Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui President IIUI was the chief guest on the occasion. Faculty Members, Administrative Officers, Employees and a large number of students attended the ceremonies.

Prof. Fateh Muhammad Malik said that Iqbal was not mere a poet instead he was a source of inspiration not only for Muslims but for humanity at large. Iqbal gave message of Khudi (self respect, integrity, credibility and confidence). Prof. Malik added that Iqbal in fact caused creation of Pakistan by his unique  message. Fateh Muhammad Malik added that Iqbal wanted the Muslims and the people of the East to come into their own. He felt that warmth had disappeared from the soul of the East: “It knows not what is the task of living.” Addressing the East, he adds: I found the lands lacking in the spirit of life. I breathed my own spirit into thee.” Simultaneously, Iqbal stirred the Indian Muslims to their depths and to new consciousness of their inherent potentialities. Not only did he fill them with his own dynamism and faith, but he also envisioned for them a new horizon – a new destiny. And that was the concept of a Muslim homeland in the subcontinent.  

Dr. Anwar Hussain Siddiqui said that Iqbal was relevant in his age and is relevant today and shall relevant for centuries to come. Dr. Siddiqui said that it was Iqbal who paved way not only for creation of Pakistan but also brought Islamic Revolution in Iran. Dr. Siddiqui told the audience that the supreme leader of Iran Ayatullah Khaminai is a follower of Iqbal. Dr. Siddiqui announced that the university has decided to change the culture of holidays on important national days instead there would be ceremonies like Eid Milad-un-Nabi (P.B.U.H), Iqbal day, Quaid-e-Azam Day, Pakistan Resolution Day, Establishment of Pakistan Day and like wise. 

Iqbal Day celebrations started with a Book Fair organized by the Central Library of the University. Mrs. Parveen Qadir Agha Vice President IIUI inaugurated the book fair. Muhammad Rafique Principal Librarian briefed the participants about the books and research work regarding Allama Iqbal on the occasion.

Faculty of Shari’ah & Law organized Seminars on “Ijtihad: Fikr-e-Iqbal Ke Raushni Mein” and “Poetry Reading Competition”. Faculty of Management Sciences  organized interactive discussion of Staff and Students on “Iqbal and his message” and Tableau, Poetry Recitation Competition. Faculty of Basic and Applied Sciences organized talk on “ Iqbal ka paigham Asr-e-Hazir ke Nam”. Faculty of Arabic organized interactive discussion “Zikre Allama Muhammad Iqbal”. Faculty of Engineering and Technology arranged bilingual essay competition topic to be revealed on the site. Faculty of Islamic Studies (Usuluddin) organized seminar on “Allama Iqbal Ka Nazriya-e-Ummat”. School of Economics  organized a quiz on the “Life and Works of Allama Iqbal”. Faculty of Social Science (Department of Education) organized a symposium on “Educational Philosophy of Iqbal”. Department of International Relations & Department of History organized speeches on “Iqbal and the Two Nations Theory” by students and staff. Department of Media and Mass Communication organized debate competition on Kalam-e-Iqbal Ek Inqilabi Zariya-e-Iblagh”. Department of Sociology and Psychology: organized seminar on “Role of Iqbal and Awakening of Muslim Nation” on its both male and female wings. Both Female and Male wing of