Bahria University organized the 6th Iqbal Conference, across its Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi campuses on 19th November 2024. The Chief Executive Officer Qarshi Knowledge City Pakistan, Ex Member Higher Education Commission Pakistan & Rector National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) Pakistan, Lt Gen (R) Muhammad Asghar HI(M) was the Chief Guest of the Opening Ceremony held at Bahria University Islamabad Campus (BUIC).
This year's theme, “Har fard hai millat ke muqaddar ka sitara” (Every Individual Shapes the Nation's Destiny) highlights Iqbal’s belief in the power of individual responsibility for collective progress. More than one 120 research abstracts and around 90 research papers were presented during the conference in the 5 campuses of Bahria University in Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore.
Rector Bahria University, Vice Admiral (Retd) Asif Khaliq, inaugurated the conference by highlighting the relevance of Allama Iqbal’s philosophy in shaping the youth’s character, resilience, purpose, and national responsibility. He stated that Bahria University has the distinction of blending modern knowledge with ethical values inspired by Iqbal, including Quranic and Islamic teachings, to tackle contemporary challenges. The Rector also expressed gratitude to Chief Guest Lieutenant General (R) Muhammad Asghar, whose presence greatly enriched the event's spirit.
Lt Gen (R) Muhammad Asghar HI(M), as the Chief Guest, emphasized that Allama Iqbal’s philosophy provides a timeless guide for individual and collective progress, especially during times of socio-political and spiritual challenges. He highlighted Iqbal’s concept of Khudi (selfhood), which promotes self-awareness, discipline, and empowerment, enabling individuals to realize their potential in alignment with divine purpose. Lt Gen Asghar underscored the relevance of Iqbal’s teachings in today’s globalized world, where adaptability, innovation, and ethical leadership are key. By integrating these principles into education and organizational culture, future leaders can achieve personal excellence while contributing to societal progress.
Earlier, Dr. Saima Kalsoom, Conference Director, welcomed the guests and talked about the connection between Allama Iqbal’s philosophy and positive psychology. She emphasized how blending Iqbal’s ideas with Seligman’s virtues promotes self-development and societal progress, focusing on Iqbal’s concept of Khudi and virtues like courage, wisdom, fairness, and self-regulation.
Chief Organizer Dr. Habib Asim emphasized the divine order and Allah’s guiding principles for individuals and nations. Honoring Iqbal’s legacy of selflessness, he highlighted Bahria University’s programs that inspire students to embody values of courage, reform, and unity, and prayed for the university’s light of knowledge to continue shining.
In conclusion, Conference Chairperson, Pro- Rector Academics, Rear Admiral (R) Muhammad Arshid Javed SI(M), emphasized that the 6th Iqbal Conference 2024 celebrates Iqbal's vision, highlighting the key role individuals play in shaping a nation's destiny. He stressed that national progress depends on both leaders and citizens, with everyone contributing to collective growth. Inspired by Iqbal’s poetry, the Chairperson called for unity, urging all to be guiding stars for the nation’s future.
At the end, Chief Coordinator Dr. Muhammad Abid Ali summarized the key themes of the 6th Iqbal Conference 2024 and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Rector Bahria University, Chief Guest, conference team, participants, and partners for their invaluable support in making the event a success. The conference was graced by the presence of distinguished ambassadors, intellectuals, and thought leaders.