The university observed the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism with an awareness seminar that convened senior leadership, faculty and a large number of students to reinforce messages of peace, tolerance and social harmony.
Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman, Vice Chancellor PMAS-AAUR, addressed the gathering as chief guest and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to fostering an academic environment centered on dialogue, inclusivity and research-based thinking. He urged students to channel their energy into constructive pursuits that support national development and global peace, and called on the academic community to stand united against violent extremism.
The event included participation from the Registrar, deans, directors, principal officers and faculty members who joined students in discussions aimed at strengthening resilience against extremist ideologies. Emphasis was placed on the role of universities in promoting critical thinking and community engagement as tools to counter radicalisation and prevent violent extremism in society.
Prof. Dr. Abdul Saboor, former Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, highlighted the transformative role of youth and drew on Quranic teachings and historical examples to stress that nations prosper when young people embrace moral values, discipline and responsibility. His remarks underscored how cultural and ethical grounding complements academic efforts to deter extremism.
Prof. Dr. Ghulam Hussain Babar, Principal Officer Students Affairs, urged students to practise patience, tolerance and mutual respect as foundations of social harmony. He encouraged them to become ambassadors of peace through dialogue, understanding and coexistence and to engage peers in positive initiatives that counter violent narratives.
The seminar concluded with a collective pledge by all attendees to promote peace, positive engagement and resilience among youth as practical measures to prevent violent extremism and build stronger, more cohesive communities in Pakistan.
