IIUI VOICE DECEMBER 2015 International Islamic University Islamabad

“IIUI IS PRIDE OF MUSLIM UMMAH” DR ABDULLAH BIN ABDULMOHSIN AL-TURKI GENERAL SECRETARY MUSLIM WORLD LEAGUE SPEAKS AT INAUGURAL CEREMONY OF 3 NEW FEMALE HOSTELS

www.iiu.edu.pk Contents

NOBEL PEACE LAUREATE’S VISIT 03 SEMINAR ON COMBATING TERRORISM 04 / 05 ISLAMABAD DECLARATION 06 / 07 TRAINING PROGRAMME / IIUI ENGINEERS SHINE AT IET 08 US ENVOY VISITS FAISAL MASJID / TRAINING COURSE AT SHARIA ACADEMY 09 ARABIC QUIZ / DR AL-DRAIWEESH MEETS AL-AZHAR COUNTERPART 10 HIKING EVENT / GERMAN ACADEMICIANS CALL ON RECTOR 11 NIAG MEETING AT IIUI / CENTRAL LIBRARY LAUNCHES E-THESES DATABASE 12 DR SHAMAILA SAJJAD EARNS GOLD MEDAL / SRI-LANKAN STUDENTS MEET PRESIDENT 13 FIRST EVER ORIC DATABASE / CH HAMID HAMEED CALLS ON RECTOR 14 SPECTRA 15 ACTIVITIES 15 IIUI PRESIDENT CALLS ON QATARI ENVOY / SEMINAR BY CTF 16

Editorial Patron-in-Chief: Dear Readers! Dr Ahmed Yousif The December 2015 tri-lingual issue of IIUI VOICE is in your hands which Al-Draiweesh contains news and details of the events and activities held at the university in previous months. Editor-in-Chief: Dr Hafiz Abid Masood The major highlight of the issue is the visit of His Excellency Dr Abdullah Abdulmohsin Al-Turki, Secretary General, Muslim World League, who Deputy Editor-in-Chief inaugurated new female hostel blocks at the university and also presided Dr Khalid Fuad over a seminar on “The Role of Religious Leadership in Fight against Terrorism and Rejection of Sectarianism” which recommended valuable Managing Editor steps to deal with the menace of terrorism included in this issue as Islamabad Muhammad Nashi Declaration. Editorial Committee I would like to thank Mr. Fatihumullah, a prominent media person from Dr Muhammad Zia-ul-haq Egypt who contributed a great deal in producing the beautifully designed Dr Ashraf Abdul Rafay Arabic section of the newsletter and edited its contents with his dedicated Dr Zafar Iqbal team. I would also appreciate my team at P&PR office which worked very Dr Fazal-e-Rabi Mumtaz hard and assisted me in designing, proof reading and editing of the contents Dr Najeeba Arif of English and Urdu Sections of the newsletter. Mr Muzammil Hussain Mr Hamid Muhammad We, the IIUI VOICE team, invite you to get in touch with us and let us have Ibrahim your precious feedback and suggestions. We would welcome if reports of departmental activities and achievements are sent to us on Reporters [email protected] for the next issue. Mr Nauman Awan Hafiz Atiq-ur-Rehman Happy readings! Dr Hafiz Abid Masood Composers Shakirullah Qasmi Mehmood Akhtar

Photography Zulﬁqar Ahmad Farhan Khalid

Designing Taimoor Azam

02 Issued by: Newsletter Ofﬁce, International Islamic University, P.O. Box No 1243,Islamabad Email: [email protected], [email protected] Phone: +92-51-9019203 YEMENI NOBEL PEACE LAUREATE VISITS IIUI

Nobel Peace Laureate Tawakkol She showed keen interest in the architecture She also called on the President IIUI Dr Abdel-Salam Karman, on the occasion of her of the Faisal Masjid, where she was briefed Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh, who visit to International Islamic University, by the IIUI as well as Capital Development welcomed and presented her a university Islamabad said that terrorism can be Authority ofﬁcials regarding the Masjid and souvenir saying that her visit was a matter of defeated with love and women would have role of the IIUI. She also lauded IIUI’s delight for the university. to play integral role in peace dissemination. services for Muslim Ummah and stressed She added that Muslim women must be that universities such as IIUI can play vital Nobel Peace Laureate also visited the given due opportunities of leadership as role in the promotion of peace and Islamic Research Institute (IRI) of IIUI where they are integral part of the society. brotherhood. She appreciated the facilities of its Director Dr Muhammad Zia ul Haq Tawakkol Abdel-Salam said that Islam has learning integrated with teachings of Islam apprised her about the role of institute. nothing to do with terrorism, while it’s a being given to the female students at IIUI. religion of moderation and peace.

“Muslim women must be given due opportunities of leadership as they are integral part of the society”

Nobel Peace Laureate Tawakkol Abdel-Salam Karman

Nobel Peace Laureate Tawakkol Abdel-Salam Karman poses for a group photo with IIUI ofﬁcials at the Faisal Masjid.

03 Speakers of a seminar at International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) agreed that religious scholars can play significant while IIUI Rector Dr Masoom Yasinzai and role in combating terrorist and extremist President Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh Dr Masoom Yasinzai said on the occasion the Muslim scholars and the society at large tendencies and there is a dire need to adopt were also present in the seminar. that the university has been producing specifically the youth. The scholars, a clear narrative against the violent elements scholars of various disciplines with added delegates and speakers of the seminar who are destroying the peace and stability of “Muslims are facing injustice especially in advantage of Islamic teachings for three recommended establishing channels for the world. Palestine” said Raja Muhammad decades. He added that the university is communication and continuous dialogue Zafar-ul-Haq while urging for joint efforts focused on producing moderate with the male and female university The seminar titled “The Role of Religious for protection of Muslims. He said that personalities with a vision of Islam’s true students and other training organizations on Leadership in Fight against Terrorism and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia must be lauded message. topics related to terrorism and extremism. Rejection of Sectarianism” was organized by for its efforts for protection of Muslims. “ Students of 45 countries acquiring quality The participants also suggested revision of the university at its Faisal Masjid campus Saudi measures in this regard are being education in serene educational milieu” he the teaching and educational methodologies which was presided over by Dr Abdullah supported by entire Muslim world and told. in the light of Islamic creed, and finding Bin Abdulmohsin Al-Turki, General particularly by Pakistan, he continued. ways to empower the educational Secretary Muslim World League (MWL). Dr Al-Draiweesh urged for joint efforts for organizations in Islamic societies. Dr Abdullah Bin Abdulmohsin Al-Turki, devising comprehensive strategies for image The event was attended by a galaxy of while speaking at the occasion, said “People, building of Muslim countries while stressing prominent figures including Raja who know less about Islam, associate it with that negative propaganda against Islam be Muhammad Zafar ul Haq, Leader of the violent attitudes, which is inappropriate.” exposed and world must be informed about House in the Senate of Pakistan, Maulana He added that educational insinuations such true teachings of Islam. “Muslim Ummah, Sami ul Haq, Head Darul Uloom Haqqania, as IIUI are of vital importance to create its religion and culture is unjustly accused of Akora Khattak, Sheikh Abu Saad awareness among the masses about Islam’s terrorism and any effort to correct this Muhammad bin Saad Al-Doussri, Director true message. Dr Abdullah Al-Turki urged perception is not taken seriously and the role Maktab-ud-Dawah, Islamabad, Dr the students and scholars to achieve of Muslims in international co-operation, Muhamad Abduho-Ateen, Director General excellence in research. He lauded the peace and global stability is ignored”, MWL, Pakistan Chapter, Dr Hazza support of Pakistani and Saudi governments concluded IIUI President. Scholars, researchers and academicians from Al-Ghamdi, Cultural Attaché of Saudi for character building of the students and Pakistan and other countries who Arabia to Pakistan, diplomats of Saudi efforts for dissemination of Islam’s message The seminar emphasized on the significance participated in the seminar presented Arabia, Tajikistan, and other countries, of peace and tranquility. of strengthening the relationship between working papers on various aspects and perspectives of the main topic. 04 Speakers of a seminar at International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) agreed that religious scholars can play significant while IIUI Rector Dr Masoom Yasinzai and role in combating terrorist and extremist President Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh Dr Masoom Yasinzai said on the occasion the Muslim scholars and the society at large tendencies and there is a dire need to adopt were also present in the seminar. that the university has been producing specifically the youth. The scholars, a clear narrative against the violent elements scholars of various disciplines with added delegates and speakers of the seminar who are destroying the peace and stability of “Muslims are facing injustice especially in advantage of Islamic teachings for three recommended establishing channels for the world. Palestine” said Raja Muhammad decades. He added that the university is communication and continuous dialogue Zafar-ul-Haq while urging for joint efforts focused on producing moderate with the male and female university The seminar titled “The Role of Religious for protection of Muslims. He said that personalities with a vision of Islam’s true students and other training organizations on Leadership in Fight against Terrorism and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia must be lauded message. topics related to terrorism and extremism. Rejection of Sectarianism” was organized by for its efforts for protection of Muslims. “ Students of 45 countries acquiring quality The participants also suggested revision of the university at its Faisal Masjid campus Saudi measures in this regard are being education in serene educational milieu” he the teaching and educational methodologies which was presided over by Dr Abdullah supported by entire Muslim world and told. in the light of Islamic creed, and finding Bin Abdulmohsin Al-Turki, General particularly by Pakistan, he continued. ways to empower the educational Secretary Muslim World League (MWL). Dr Al-Draiweesh urged for joint efforts for organizations in Islamic societies. Dr Abdullah Bin Abdulmohsin Al-Turki visiting pictorial gallery of the Islamic Research Dr Abdullah Bin Abdulmohsin Al-Turki, devising comprehensive strategies for image Institute at the Faisal Masjid Campus of IIUI. The event was attended by a galaxy of while speaking at the occasion, said “People, building of Muslim countries while stressing prominent figures including Raja who know less about Islam, associate it with that negative propaganda against Islam be RELIGIOUS Muhammad Zafar ul Haq, Leader of the violent attitudes, which is inappropriate.” exposed and world must be informed about “ LEADERSHIP House in the Senate of Pakistan, Maulana He added that educational insinuations such true teachings of Islam. “Muslim Ummah, Sami ul Haq, Head Darul Uloom Haqqania, as IIUI are of vital importance to create its religion and culture is unjustly accused of CAN FIGHT Akora Khattak, Sheikh Abu Saad awareness among the masses about Islam’s terrorism and any effort to correct this Muhammad bin Saad Al-Doussri, Director true message. Dr Abdullah Al-Turki urged perception is not taken seriously and the role TERRORISM Maktab-ud-Dawah, Islamabad, Dr the students and scholars to achieve of Muslims in international co-operation, EFFECTIVELY Muhamad Abduho-Ateen, Director General excellence in research. He lauded the peace and global stability is ignored”, MWL, Pakistan Chapter, Dr Hazza support of Pakistani and Saudi governments concluded IIUI President. Scholars, researchers and academicians ” from Al-Ghamdi, Cultural Attaché of Saudi for character building of the students and Pakistan and other countries who Arabia to Pakistan, diplomats of Saudi efforts for dissemination of Islam’s message The seminar emphasized on the significance participated in the seminar presented Arabia, Tajikistan, and other countries, of peace and tranquility. of strengthening the relationship between working papers on various aspects and Dr Masoom Yasinzai and Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh presenting a crest to Dr Abdullah Bin perspectives of the main topic. Abdulmohsin Al-Turki. 05 ISLAMABAD

Islamabad Declaration issued on the important and burning issue and Islam promotes equality of human To ward off these evil and the negative souls became tolerant, compassionate occasion of seminar titled “The Role of inviting scholars from all schools of beings, and it does not differentiate effects of terrorism seminar and cooperative, full of love and H. The seminar praises all of Saudi Religious Leadership in Fight against thought and offering them an between an Arab and non-Arab except recommended the following: brotherhood and that was the cause of Arabian initiatives represented by the Terrorism and Rejection of opportunity to debate the relevant on the basis of piety. The seminar the power of Islam and its greatness Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Sectarianism” held at International issue with full freedom. participants agreed that such actions The religious leaders that have the and bringing people into the religion King Salman bin Abdul Aziz, may God Islamic University Islamabad on are contrary to the idea of Islamic power of persuasion and influence on of Allah en masse. protect him, and requests His Royal November 24, 2015. Second, the seminar welcomed the brotherhood, which was basically the masses should play their positive Highness to establish an International kind patronage of Dr Abdullah Bin aimed at spreading Islam in the whole role in advancing the following E. The religious leaders should utilize Institute for Counter-terrorism under Terrorism in all its forms and Abdulmohsin Al- Turki, Secretary world. They added that non-violent agenda: the media to spread the correct message the United Nations and provide the manifestations has plagued the world General of the Muslim World League, nature of Islam is evident from the fact of Islam to fight terrorism in all its necessary funds. International Islamic today. Realizing the nature of threat to attend, participate and offer that Muslims lived in the south of A. Complete rejection of terrorism in abhorrent forms of intolerance, hatred University offers to work in and the challenge that the Muslim guidance which helped to make the France for two hundred years, and all its meanings and manifestations, and rejection of the others’ point of collaboration with the Institute and to world faces in these precarious times, seminar to succeed and achieve its history records not a single act of the declaration said that all forms of view. provide scientific expertise for the International Islamic University objectives. The seminar paid regards aggression, terrorism or bloodshed terrorism are un-Islamic and total success of the project. organized this seminar in collaboration and expressed appreciation for the during this whole period, but an deviation from the true message of F. It is incumbent upon religious with the Muslim World League—an President of the Islamic Republic of honorable model of mercy and Islam. leaders to start a movement for the I. The seminar emphasizes the organization that played a vital role in Pakistan/Chancellor of the IIUI His tolerance, with the followers of other rejection of hatred and intolerance and importance of the distribution of the drawing attention to the challenges Excellency Mamnoon Hussain for his religions and the sons of humanity. B. Rejection of intolerance and to stay away from every reason to recommendations of the seminar to that the Muslims are facing around the support and sponsorship. sectarianism, the declaration called for terrorism or encourage it. They should media leaders in the Muslim world in world—and under the kind patronage Fifth, the seminar concluded that the discouraging the intellectual conflicts, convene regular meetings to propagate order to keep them away from hatred, of its Secretary General, Dr Abdullah Third, the seminar emphasized that negative effects of terrorism are caused which lead to armed conflicts, fighting the message that Islam really stands sedition and sectarian strife so that the Bin Abdulmohsin Al-Turki, under the terrorism is a non-Islamic by the tragedies and massacres, armed and nurtures hatred rather than for: the message of peace, moderation media itself does not become an chairmanship of President IIUI, Dr phenomenon from every perspective conflicts and violence. They understanding, tolerance and and rejection of extremism. They instrument of terror. Ahmed Bin Yousif Al-Draiweesh and because it is contrary to the true Islam, maintained that clashes even among cooperation. should play their role in preparing the Rector IIUI Dr Masoom Yasinzai at the which calls for compassion, wisdom, Islamist elements have weakened the Muslim youth against the intellectual J. The seminar emphasizes the Old Campus, Faisal Masjid Complex. good advice, tolerance, dialogue, good glory of Islam and Muslims and it has C. Adopt a new methodology to call penetration and cultural invasion and importance of cooperation between The seminar was attended and neighborliness, good manners and given rise to the phenomenon of people towards Islam based on the International Islamic University universities and scientific academies, participated by a number of prominent decent treatment. Islamophobia that has swept the following verse of the Holy Quran Islamabad expresses its eagerness to associations, religious and public religious leaders, a constellation of Western world as a result of terrorist (16:125) {Tr: Invite to the way of thy volunteer for the service of Islam and institutions in order to combat Pakistan’s eminent scholars, opinion Fourth, the seminar considered the acts, which create huge problems for Lord with wisdom and beautiful Muslims in this area as usual. terrorism and extremism by organizing makers, thinkers and media figures. causes of terrorism at the global level, the Muslim minorities in the West. preaching and argue with them in a seminars, lectures and other academic and felt that these include: the lack of way that is the best}. G. The Religious Leaders’ Seminar events. The seminar discussed a number of justice and impartiality in dealing with Sixth, the seminar alerted the appeals to the leadership of the Islamic research papers and concluded to issue the issues of the Muslim world, double participants that the enemies of Islam D. Focus on the primary goal of Islam world to take the initiative to reunite K. Seminar calls for formation of a the following statement: standards, the injustices faced the in the East and the West are taking which is Muslim unity and solidarity, the Ummah by rejecting the political committee to follow up the oppressed, the silence of the world on advantage of the phenomenon of Holy Quran (3:103) {Tr: And hold differences that weaken the Ummah implementation of these First, the participants praised the such injustices, the starvation, the violence by some so-called Islamic firmly to the rope of Allah all together, and a full-time effort is needed to recommendations and the wider efforts of International Islamic siege and the destruction that goes on groups to blame Islam of terrorism and and do not become divided}. The confront underdevelopment, poverty, dissemination/translation into several University represented through Iqbal without accountability or trial, hateful sectarianism, which greatness of Islam in the golden period ignorance and disease issues, and work languages. Institute for Research and Dialogue in intolerance of one sect against the other resultantly, destroys the unity of of its history was able to uproot hatred with the construction of the lands of organizing the seminar on such an without paying heed to the fact that Muslims and undermines their power. among the people and the warring Islam and their rejuvenation.

06 DECLARATION

07 TRAINING PROGRAM AT IPD

A two-month training program for non Yousif Al-Draiweesh who stressed for Addressing the ceremony, Dr Shaheen Khan teaching staff of the federal capital public dedication and honesty to the work. He was stressed the need for regular on-job training sector universities was organized by the of the view that staff of universities have to meet the needs of 21st century workplace. Institute of Professional Development (IPD), responsibility to nurture young minds and She also lauded IIUI especially IPD’s efforts International Islamic University Islamabad they must be role models for them, Prof Dr in this regard. The event was also attended (IIUI at Faisal Masjid campus.The program Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh thanked Dr by Director IPD schools Dr Saeed ul Hassan was held in collaboration with Higher Shaheen Khan, Advisor HEC Learning Chisthi, Professor Dr Muhammad Education Commission (HEC) which was Innovation Division for patronage in Al-Ghazali, Editor Islamic Studies, Islamic attended by non-teaching staff of NUST, conducting training programmes at IPD and Research Institute (IRI), Training NUML, AIOU, QAU, COMSATS and IIUI. expressed confidence that HEC would Mnagement Specialist IPD Saneeha Khalid regularly organize such training and others. The closing ceremony of the program was programmes in future. presided over by President IIUI Dr Ahmed

IIUI ENGINEERS SHINE AT IET INNOVATION SUMMIT ’15 GIKI

A team of IIUI students stood runners up in The Modules won by IIUI students were IET INNOVATION SUMMIT ’15 held at Project Exhibition and Conceive Innovate Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering and Technical Paper Presentation. The IIUI Sciences and Technology Topi, Swabi team competed with more than 350 students Khyber Pukhtunkhawa. from renowned universities of Pakistan. The team of BSEE F12 comprising Syed Ali The team named SOLOCRAFT CREW from Sajjad, Muzamil Bostan, Asim Mustafa and Department of Electronics Engineering, Muhammad Ali was supervised by Engr. Faculty of Engineering & Technology (FET) Adil Farooq, faculty member at FET. participated in the event securing two runners up positions.

08 US ENVOY VISITS FAISAL MASJID

United States Ambassador to Pakistan General and other high officials of the endeavors. David Hale, visitied Faisal Masjid, university. International Islamic University, Islamabad. He was also informed about the recently He was received by Dr Muhammad Bashir US Envoy showed keen interest in Masjid. signed MoU between IIUI and University of Khan, Vice President Academics, Gulzar He was also briefed about the university, its North Carolina Wilmington USA for Ahmed Khwaja Advisor to the President academic programmes, international academic excellence. IIUI, Khalid Mehmood Raja Director linkages and particularly its outreach

TRAINING COURSE AT SHARIA ACADEMY

A three month long training programme for Muftis was organized by the Shariah Academy of the International Islamic university (IIU).

The course was attended by 40 Muftis from across the country including 5 officials of Ministry of Religious Affairs, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The course covered a galaxy of topics such as Islamic economics, computer, objectives of Shariah, and principles of Fiqh.

The concluding ceremony of the course was emphasized to promote brotherhood in the Dr Muhammad Munir, Acting Vice presided over by the President IIUI Dr society. He was of the view that Ulema and President Higher Studies and Research, IIUI, Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh. In his address, Khutaba must be aware of contemporary Dr Sohail Hassan, Director, Dawah Dr. Al-Draiweesh stressed that Ulema and challenges and they should provide Academy, Dr Abdul Hai Abro and Dr Habib Muftis have responsibility to forge unity solutions to contemprary issues in the light ur Rehman also spoke on the occasion. among the ranks of Muslims and of Islamic teachings. 09 FACULTY OF ARABIC (FEMALE) ORGANIZES “FIRST ARABIC QUIZ COMPETITION”

Faculty of Arabic, Female Campus of the Female Campus Dr Amna Mehmood, and Gulraiz Campus got third position. university organised “First Arabic Quiz former Director Female Campus, Dr Usman Ahmed from IIUI School Ghouri Competition” in which more than 100 Zaitoon Begum, Students’ Advisor Dr Town Campus and Rafia Khursheed from students from over 20 IIUI Schools of twin Najeeba Arif, faculty members and students Gulzar-e-Quaid Campus won title cities participated. also attended the event. “ALHUDHUD Al-ARABI” in the competition. Addressing the students, Dr The competition titled as “ALHUDHUD In junior category, IIUI School Ghuori Bashir Khan said a bright future is Al-ARABI” was divided into junior, senior Town Campus secured first position, while associated with young blood of the country. teams and individual categories. E-11 Campus stood second and F-11 He advised the students that they must Campus got third position. In senior obey the teachings of Islam and respect the Dr Muhammad Bashir Khan, Vice category, IIUI School Adayla Road teachers to get success in life. President Academics IIUI, was the chief Campus, Rawalpindi, stood fist, while guest on the occasion, while Acting Director Gulzar-e-Quaid Campus obtained second Dr. Aroosa’s book DR AL-DRAIWEESH MEETS AL-AZHAR “Rethinking Identities COUNTERPART in Contemporary Pakistani Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh, President inception of IIUI Al-Azhar university has International Islamic University, Islamabad been supporting it in terms of faculty which Fiction: (IIUI) met with Al-Azhar University, is an omen of close ties between both the Beyond 9/11” President Abdul Hai Azab in Cairo, Egypt. institutions. published During the meeting, matters related to bilateral cooperation and enhancement of This book of Dr Aroosa Kanwal (Assistant academic excellence were discussed, while Professor at department of English, both the personalities vowed to jointly keep International Islamic University, taking practical steps for promotion of Islamabad, IIUI) has been published by education. Palgrave Macmillan. The book links the Dr Al-Draiweesh hailed the cooperation of post-9/11 stereotyping of Muslims and Al-Azhar for faculty assistance while Islam in the West to the roots of current mentioning induction of 11 Egyptian ‘jihadism’ and the resurgence of teachers in the faculties of Arabic, Shariah ethnocentrism within the subcontinent and Usool ud din of IIUI. He said that since and beyond.

10 IIUI ARRANGES HIKING EVENT

International Islamic University, Islamabad The event kicked-off with a ceremony promoting healthy activities in the (IIUI), in collaboration with Higher which was attended by the Rector IIUI Dr educational institutions. Rector IIUI said on Education Commission (HEC) organized a Masoom Yasinzai, HEC Executive Director the occasion that the university was hiking event in suburbs of Faisal Masjid Dr Ghulamn Raza, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali working over MoUs with foreign campus of the university. Bhutto Medical University VC Dr Javed universities and it was also mulling over Akram, Deputy Director Sports IIUI launching a degree programme in sports The three-kilometer hike event was Manzoor Hussain Shah and other HEC & sciences. He reiterated his resolve to attended by more than 100 students of IIUI IIUI Officials. provide an international platform to the and other educational institutions of students through IIUI. Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Speakers of the ceremony urged for

GERMAN ACADEMICIANS CALL ON RECTOR IIUI

German Academicians Dr Ullrich Gunther from Senior Expert Services, Germany and Dr Lars Bergmeyer Country Director, German Academic and Exchange Service (DAAD), Islamabad called on Dr Masoom Yasinzai, Rector International Islamic University, Islamabad.

Proposals to initiate new academic programmes and to develop scholarship linkages with German universities and institutions were discussed in the meeting.

German experts briefed the Rector about German scholarship programmes and the way forward to develop mutual educational relations. They said that Pakistan is developing rapidly in the field of education and German educational institutions along corporate companies are very much interested in starting joint academic and research based programmes with Pakistani universities.

Dr Masoom said Islamic University is keenly interested in initiating

11 split degree programmes and joint research and scientific projects with German universities including seminars, international On the occasion, Dr Abdul Hameed, Director Office of Research, conferences and symposiums. He said that IIUI is unique and finest Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC), Mr Awais Ijaz Khan example of co-existence, brotherhood and provides peaceful Deputy Dean FMS and Dr Imran Khan, Head Center for learning environment to its students. Rector IIUI said that the Higher Interdiciplinary Research in Basic Sciences (CIRBS), IIUI were also Education Commission is paying full attention to facilitate students. present.

NIAG MEETING AT IIUI 80% DECREASE IN POLIO VIRUS LOAD IN PAKISTAN

Mentionable 80% decrease in polio virus also Chairman of the NIAG. till December, 2015 focusing on the highest load has been witnessed in Pakistan which is risk districts and UCs in the country. being hailed globally for continued polio “Although there has been significant eradication efforts, said Prime Minister’s progress made towards polio eradication in Dr Al-Draiweesh said in the meeting that Focal Person on Polio Eradication, Ayesha the country, there is now a need for Ulema were playing pivotal role in Raza Farooq while chairing the 6th National collaborative efforts to get rid of this eradication of polio, while we would have to Islamic Advisory Group (NIAG’s) meeting crippling disease” said Ayesha Raza Farooq. further focus on removing misconceptions at Dawah Academy of the International She added that Pakistan in the year 2014 about the polio vaccine. IIUI President Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI). Efforts faced an outbreak situation of polio in some lauded government’s efforts and for polio eradication, streamlining religious areas but in 2015 with balanced efforts, well appreciated the decrease in number of polio scholars for polio free Pakistan and designed strategies, role of Ulema and other cases. He added that it was result of decisions and implementation of previous key stakeholders government was dedication to the solution of problem. He meetings were reviewed by the NIAG successful to tackle this menace and there is suggested that the educational institutions members in the meeting. overall 80% reduction in the viral load should be involved in arranging awareness which is appreciated at all levels. campaigns and polio eradication policies The meeting sessions were chaired by while adding that the conferences on the Maulana Sami ul Haq, Head, Jamia Darul PM’s Advisor apprised that NIAG with the issues would be helpful. He also apprised Uloom, Akora Khattak and Dr Ahmed support of Provincial Scholar Task Forces the participants regarding the training Yousif Al-Draiweesh President IIUI who is (PSTFs) has now a religious advocacy plan programmes of the university in this regard.

CENTRAL LIBRARY LAUNCHES E-THESES DATABASE

The Central Library, International Islamic Research IIUI was chief guest of launching University Islamabad has developed and ceremony and inaugurated the database. launched its Electronic Theses and The ceremony was also attended by Mr Sher Dissertations (ETDs) database, a digital Nowrooz Khan, Chief Librarian and other repository of theses and dissertations library officials. produced by the university researchers and scholars. Dr Muhammad Tahir Mansoori, This database can be visited at following the then Vice President Higher Studies & link: http://theses.iiu.edu.pk:8002

12 DR SHAMAILA SAJJAD EARNS DR SAFI ULLAH GOLD MEDAL OF IIUI AWARDED Ph.D DEGREE Dr Shamaila Sajjad, Chairperson published a scientific review article in Department of Physics of the university has Energy and Environmental Sciences with Dr Safi Ullah produced his thesis titled been awarded Pakistan Academy of impact factor of 20.65 with more than 300 “Abdul Wali Khan: A Political Study Sciences Gold Medal, certificate and cash citations. (1942-1990)”. He is also faculty member prize in Emerging technology on her at the Department of History & Pakistan research achievements in nanotechnology. Studies, IIUI, who got the honour of She has completed her Ph.D from China in being first Ph.D of his parent the field of Nanotechnology under Higher Department. Education Commission (HEC) Overseas Professor Dr Razia Sultana, Vice Scholarship Scheme. Chancellor, Shaheed Benazir Dr Shamaila has many successful projects in Bhutto Women the field of nanomaterials on her credit and University, published many articles in well reputed and Peshawar high impact international SCI journals with supervised cumulative impact factor of 100 and total his thesis. citations of more than 1000. She has also

NEWLY INDUCTED SRI LANKAN STUDENTS MEET IIUI PRESIDENT

A group of 15 newly inducted Sri Lankan students at International for continuous support of Muslim students, while he also Islamic University; Islamabad called on Dr Ahmed Yousif appreciated the cooperation of Government of Pakistan. Al-Draiweesh. These students have been inducted under the scholarship The IIUI President assured that the new students would be provided programme which has been initiated in light of an MoU between best environment of learning and also reiterated his resolve saying IIUI and the Al-Rajhi Trust of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). that the induction of Sri Lankan students at varsity is an omen of the The students would commence their four years degrees at Faculties achievement of IIUI’s goal of internationalization. of Shariah and Law (FSL) and Usool ud Din (FUD). The meeting was also attended by the Dean FSL Dr Muhammad The IIUI President stressed upon them to devote themselves for Tahir Hakeem, Dean Faculty of Arabic Dr Hafiz Muhammad Bashir, acquiring knowledge. He added that it is need of hour that students Dean FUD Dr Haroon ur Rasheed, Director General IIUI Khalid must pursue advanced education integrated with teachings of Islam. Mehmood Raja, Director President Office IIUI Mr Abdullah Al-faifi, “Muslim students have responsibility of Ummah’s future, they Advisors of the President IIUI and other concerned officials. would have to disseminate Islam’s message of peace and moderation The students thanked President IIUI saying they were enjoying a across the world” said Dr Al-Draiweesh. He thanked Al-Rajhi Trust friendly and learning environment at IIUI.

13 IIUI LAUNCHES FIRST EVER ORIC ONLINE RESEARCH DATA BASE

Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC) International Islamic University, Islamabad IIUI has launched first ever Online Research Database in the university.

The ORIC online research database was inaugurated by Dr Masoom Yasinzai, Rector Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh presenting university crest to trainee software engineers IIUI and Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh Muhammad Fayaz and Awais Ahmed President.

The idea behind the establishment of this contributions, research papers, books etc. Dr Al-Draiweesh congratulated all team innovative online database was conceived Through this online database all research members for this innovation and said that by Muhammad Adnan Khan, Deputy contributions of IIUI will be streamlined. through this database, IIUI is entering new Director ORIC. In just a period of 4 months, phase of research which would provide two brilliant trainee software engineers Dr Masoom expressed his satisfaction over wide spectrum of working for teaching graduated from Department of Computer the project and said this would pave the way community. Sciences IIUI, Muhammad Fayaz and Awais to excel research activities and promote Ahmed have structured the data base. research culture in the university. He was of Dr Abdul Hameed, Director ORIC briefed the view that such innovations in university about the database, its working, benefits, This research database will provide easy upgrade research contributions and features, utilization and advantages for access to teachers and students through their improve the quality of research papers. research scholars to maintain and own accounts to upload research disseminate their research contributions.

CH HAMID HAMEED CALLS ON RECTOR IIUI

Mr Hamid Hameed discussed various matters pertaining to higher education, trainings and prospects of quality of education in the university. He also showed keen interest in the matters of IIUI, its future plans and particularly on-going training programmes for Aimaas, Khutabas.

While refering to previous meeting in which IIUI was asked to contribute to and prepare curriculum of Madrassas integrated with contemporary requirements, he sought possible role of IIUI to bring Madrassas into main stream of the country. Dr Masoom speaking on academic programmes of IIUI said that it offers admissions to students who completed their study from Madrassas. Dr Masoom proposed comprehensive package of reforms and restructuring of Ch Hamid Hameed, Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit Baltistan / Madrassas starting from primary level. Both Member of the Standing Committee on Education, Training & Standards in Higher Education the personalities agreed to finalize the role called on Dr Muhammad Masoom Yasinzai, Rector International Islamic University Islamabad. for IIUI in this regard in coming meeting.

14 SPECTRA ENTHRALLS STUDENTS

The Students' Advisor Office (male) guest who termed the SPECTRA as mega SPECTRA-15 aimed at providing a platform organized an Intra-University Super event while saying that such constructive to all competitive and confident students of colossal event “SPECTRA-15″ which activities are necessary for the grooming of IIUI for curricular and extra-curricular provided a platform to the students to students. He said that curricular and activates and to prepare participants for showcase talent and polish their skills. extra-curricular activities are the sign of twin cities and All Pakistan Competitions. Students took part in over 40 activities talented youth at any campus. He also He added that the event would help covering documentaries, debates, sports, felicitated the organizers on conducting this students to polish their skills and showcase essay writing, calligraphy, Qiraat, Naat and event. their talent and potentials. He reiterated his many other competitions. resolve that IIUI would keep providing Dr Muhammad Munir, Vice President In opening ceremony of the event, Dr Hafiz opportunities to its talented youth. Higher Studies and Research was the chief Abid Masood, Students' Advisor said that

15 IIUI PRESIDENT CALLS ON QATARI ENVOY

Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh, President International Islamic University (IIUI) called on Ambassador of State of Qatar to Pakistan Saqr bin Mubarak Al-Mansouri.

Issues of mutual interests were discussed in the meeting, while enhancement of bilateral cooperation was agreed on the occasion.

The Ambassador assured that cooperation with IIUI would continue. He termed IIUI role as vital in nurturing young minds of Muslim Ummah. He also appreciated the organization of a seminar on role of Muslim leadership in combating terrorism and said that such constructive forums can produce viable solutions to contemporary challenges.

Dr Al-Draiweesh apprised the Ambassador regarding ongoing educational activities at the university and informed the envoy about the recommendations of the seminar on role of Muslim leadership in combating terrorism . He hoped that this seminar would bring fruitful results for the Ummah.

SEMINAR ON ENCOUNTERING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Speakers of a seminar at International appreciated the contribution of Critical The participants voiced that women should Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) termed Thinking Forum in the be wise enough to make right choices in literacy, improvement in social structures, consciousness-raising of Pakistani women. their lives and decide whether to enjoy the and awareness to women rights as luxury of subordination or to pay the price pre-requisites to encounter violence against Dr Munazza Yaqoob, gave a brief of empowerment. women. background of Critical Thinking Forum and the project Consciousness Raising of As a part of the project activities, Critical The seminar titled “Encountering Violence Pakistani Women on Contemporary Thinking Forum conducted a roundtable against Women” was organized by Critical Academic and Social Issues. discussion session titled “Human Rights Thinking Forum (CTF) of the university at Day” which was followed by a two-day the Lincoln Corner of the Central Library Ms Saba Ghori, Mission Gender Advisor, inter-disciplinary conference titled which was attended by Christiana Department of State, US Embassy shared her “Consciousness-Raising of Pakistani Tomlinson, Counselor for Public Affairs, experiences of working as a Gender Advisor Women: Negotiating Differences and Department of State, US Embassy, and the work being done in the US to Building Alliances”. Islamabad as guest of honor. prevent violence against women.

The event was also attended by the Project Director ,Founder and Incharge of Critical Thinking Forum, Dr Munazza Yaqoob, CTF members, as well as faculty and students from various departments of IIUI (Female Campus).

Ms Christina Tomlinson, in her opening remarks discussed the American commitment with Human Rights in general and women’s rights in particular. She also

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