A consensus emerged in a workshop held at Bahauddin Zakaria University today that religious scholars can promote peace and tolerance.

The theme of the workshop was ‘National Development and Social Harmony: The Role of Religious Scholars’. The event was organized by the Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue, International Islamic University Islamabad.

The call to action was a central theme at the two-day training workshop, ‘National Development and Social Harmony: The Role of Religious Scholars,’ which concluded at Bahauddin Zakariya University (BZU). The event was organized by the Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD) of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI).

The gathering attracted a diverse group of academics, educators, and students from various universities and seminaries. They engaged in robust discussions centered on the power of dialogue and the significant role of religious leadership in cultivating a unified and peaceful society.

Nasir Fareed, the Additional Director of IRD, explained that the institute actively organizes intellectual sessions across Pakistan to advance dialogue and social accord. He noted that these efforts are inspired by the vision of IIUI President Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed to build a compassionate society founded on mutual understanding.

During the first session, Prof. Dr. Abdul Qudoos Sohaib, Dean of the Faculty of Islamic Studies and Languages at BZU, described dialogue as a potent instrument for reducing differences and resolving misunderstandings. He stressed that fostering a culture of communication and patience is essential for stable and peaceful coexistence.

Echoing this sentiment, Prof. Dr. Saeed ur Rehman, a Dean at the University of Southern Punjab, highlighted the pivotal role theologians play in shaping public attitudes. He implored them to use their sermons and religious gatherings to disseminate messages of tolerance and stability, asserting that a tranquil society is the bedrock of prosperity.

The workshop concluded with a unified agreement among speakers that scholars, through their intellectual guidance and social influence, can make a profound contribution to the nation by nurturing a culture of justice, compassion, and mutual respect.