A one-day National Sirah Exhibition and Seminar at the Allama Iqbal Auditorium, International Islamic University Islamabad, examined the responsible use of social media through the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The event gathered scholars, academic leaders, and students to discuss how Sirah-based principles—truthfulness, respect and constructive dialogue—can guide ethical digital behaviour and help counter misinformation among youth.
The initiative was led by Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmad, President of IIUI, and organized jointly by the International Center of Excellence for Sirah Studies, the Islamic Research Institute at IIUI, Jamia Muhammadi Sharif, Chiniot, and several IIUI faculties. The programme aimed to connect classical Sirah scholarship with contemporary challenges posed by rapid digital communication.
Keynote presenters included Prof. Dr. Mustafeez Alvi of NUML Islamabad, Prof. Dr. Ahmad Bin Saeed Al-Qarni of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Ghassan Abdul Majeed of Syria, and Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Salhi of Yemen. They stressed that the life and example of the Prophet offer enduring guidance on honesty, mutual respect and meaningful dialogue—values that are especially relevant in today’s fast-paced online environment.
Speakers from IIUI reinforced the role of scholars and institutions in promoting digital ethics. Dr. Abdul Samad Sheikh of the Department of Hadith and Its Sciences called on scholars to help shape moral frameworks for online engagement, while Prof. Dr. Fazalullah and Prof. Dr. Hafiz Taj Afsar urged academic institutions to incorporate Sirah-based values into student development so graduates can navigate modern social and technological challenges responsibly.
Student affairs leaders also highlighted the urgency of the issue. Dr. Hafiz Ghufran Ahmed and Dr. Rukhsana Tariq reflected on the profound influence of social media on young people and advocated for stronger spiritual and ethical guidance to inform their online behaviour.
In his presidential address, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, Director General of the Islamic Research Institute at IIUI, described the Prophet’s life as a model of responsible communication, tolerance and truthfulness. He argued that educational institutions should integrate Sirah-based training to empower students to contribute positively in the digital age.
Prof. Dr. Sahibzada Sajid ur Rehman, former Vice President of IIUI and the seminar’s chief guest, commended the initiative and urged that social media be used to spread truth and Islamic values rather than misinformation and division.
The event closed with a vote of thanks from Sahibzada Muhammad Qamar-ul-Haq, President of Jamia Muhammadi Sharif, who praised the scholarly contributions and expressed hope that the seminar’s message would inspire students and youth across Pakistan.
