AHSAN IQBAL CALLS FOR SIRAH INSPIRED SOLUTIONS TO GLOBAL CRISES AT IIUI SIRAH CONFERENCE
Islamabad ( Web News )
Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, on Thursday emphasized that the contemporary world is grappling with numerous challenges, and humanity is in search of peace and justice. In this context, the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) serves as a profound source of inspiration and guidance.
He made these remarks while addressing the opening session of the two-day International Sirah Conference, titled “Contemporary Dimensions in the Study of the Sirah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): Approaches, Challenges, and the Way Forward”, hosted by the Islamic Research Institute (IRI) of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI).
Speaking to a diverse audience of scholars, international delegates, and students, Ahsan Iqbal described the Prophet’s life as the living embodiment of noble character and human dignity. Referring to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Palestine, he called for stronger Muslim unity and highlighted the Sirah as a timeless repository of wisdom and moral values. He further emphasized that the Sirah should inform the shaping of modern societies, particularly in pursuing sustainable development and economic stability rooted in prophetic principles of justice and compassion.
The event brought together notable figures, including Raja Zafar-ul-Haq, Secretary-General of the World Muslim Congress; Dr. Saad Eddine El Othmani, former Prime Minister of Morocco; Dr. Abdellatif Bouazizi, former President of Tunisia’s Al-Zaytuna University; Chairman of the Higher Education Commission and Rector IIUI, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed; President IIUI, Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed; and Director General of IRI, Dr. Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq. Over 90 national and international scholars presented research papers during the conference.
In his address, Raja Zafar-ul-Haq stated that love for the Prophet (PBUH) is integral to Muslim identity. He stressed the urgent need to make Sirah literature accessible in multiple languages, especially for the younger generation. He also noted previous collaborations with IIUI scholars in this regard and underscored the importance of using modern digital media to more widely disseminate the Prophet’s teachings.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed highlighted the crucial role universities must play in advancing Sirah studies and commended the IRI for its scholarly contributions. He extended his appreciation to all national and international researchers and dignitaries participating in the conference.
The official recommendations of the conference were presented by Sahibzada Qamar-ul-Haq, head of the co-hosting institution Jamia Muhammadi Sharif, Chiniot. Key proposals included integrating Sirah studies as a compulsory academic subject and developing digital libraries to preserve and broaden access to Sirah literature.
Scholars also recommended the establishment of dedicated research centers focused on applying prophetic teachings to contemporary issues such as social justice, environmental sustainability, and gender equity.
The conference concluded with a shared commitment to advancing Sirah scholarship as a means to address contemporary global challenges through moral and intellectual engagement rooted in the prophetic tradition. Participants advocated for multidisciplinary approaches—drawing from sociology, law, psychology, and peace studies—to ensure a holistic and relevant understanding of the Prophet’s legacy.