Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi observed the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism with a focused awareness seminar that brought together senior leadership, faculty and a large student body to reinforce peace and social cohesion.
Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman, Vice Chancellor PMAS-AAUR, addressed participants and underlined the university’s commitment to an academic culture built on dialogue, inclusivity and research-based thinking. He urged students to channel their energy into constructive activities that support national development and global peace, and asked the campus community to reaffirm a collective stand against violent extremism.
Participants included the Registrar, deans, directors, principal officers and a wide cross-section of faculty members who joined students in discussions about practical steps to counter radicalisation. The event highlighted the role of higher education institutions in promoting tolerance and resilience among youth as a frontline defence against violent extremism.
Former Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Dr. Abdul Saboor, connected the conversation to moral and historical frameworks, noting from Quranic teachings and past examples that societies prosper when young people adopt discipline, ethical values and responsibility. His remarks framed youth engagement as a transformative force for Pakistan’s future.
Prof. Dr. Ghulam Hussain Babar, Principal Officer Students Affairs, emphasised patience, tolerance and mutual respect as essential foundations for social harmony. He encouraged students to act as ambassadors of peaceful dialogue and coexistence, stressing that community-level interaction and understanding are vital to prevent the spread of violent extremism.
The seminar concluded with a collective pledge by all attendees to promote peace, positive engagement and resilience among young people. Organisers said the initiative will be followed by campus activities and outreach efforts aimed at sustaining awareness and proactive citizenship to counter violent extremism in society.
