GCWU VC Touches On Peace, Intellectual Awareness, And National Unity At Seminar

SIALKOT, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th May, 2026) Professor Dr. Shazia Bashir, Vice Chancellor of Government College Women University Sialkot, participated as a panelist in the “International Narowal Peace Dialogue 2026” organized by University of Narowal, where she delivered a thought-provoking address on peace, intellectual awareness, and national unity.

Delegates, scholars, policymakers, religious and social leaders, and education experts from various countries attended this international dialogue, where detailed discussions were held on promoting sustainable peace and international harmony in the region, a release of the varsity said.

In her speech, Professor Dr. Shazia Bashir stated that the world is currently facing not only political and military crises but also a deep intellectual and moral crisis. She said that during the recent Iran–U.S. tensions, Pakistan demonstrated wisdom, restraint, and prudent diplomacy, reflecting the role of a positive and responsible state on the global stage. She added that Pakistan has once again proven that true strength is not displayed through war, but through playing an effective role in promoting peace.

Referring to the philosophy of selfhood (Khudi) and the concept of unity within the Muslim Ummah presented by Allama Muhammad Iqbal, she emphasized their continued relevance in the modern era. She stated that Iqbal’s philosophy remains a source of hope, awareness, and intellectual awakening for the younger generation. According to her, Iqbal did not merely teach Muslim youth to dream, but encouraged them to recognize their intellectual, moral, and academic potential.

Professor Dr. Shazia Bashir also referred to modern scientific disciplines, particularly quantum physics, and said that contemporary science is also pointing toward the reality that everything in the universe is interconnected. She noted that this idea is also evident in Iqbal’s philosophy, where human beings are regarded as part of a greater moral and collective reality.

She urged young people to use social media not for negativity, hatred, and division, but for the promotion of knowledge, research, tolerance, and a positive national narrative. She remarked that universities are not merely institutions for awarding degrees, but centers for producing intellectual leadership, and that today’s youth must move forward by combining Iqbal’s intellectual depth with modern scientific awareness.

She further stated that promoting Pakistani identity, national harmony, and sustainable peace requires collective thinking, intellectual dialogue, and ethical leadership. If the younger generation adopts knowledge, awareness, and positive thinking as its guiding principles, Pakistan can emerge not only as a strong voice for peace, moderation, and progress in the region, but across the world.

At the conclusion of the event, national and international delegates described Professor Dr. Shazia Bashir’s address as highly insightful, intellectual, and aligned with the demands of the modern age, calling it an effective message for the younger generation.