RIYADH — An intellectual and educational session titled “Islam’s Message of Peace and the Global Landscape” was organized by Izhar, an educational and intellectual organization, at Izhar House in Riyadh.
The session was chaired by Professor Azmatullah Bhutta, Founder and Patron-in-Chief of Izhar, while Professor Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Rashid, Vice Amir of Markazi Jamiat Ahle Hadith Pakistan, attended as the chief guest.
The program began with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Abdullah Iqbal Kailani. Dr. Rashid Mahmood, Secretary General of Izhar, moderated the session and introduced the organization’s objectives. He said that Izhar, established in 2020, focuses on the intellectual, moral and educational development of young people while promoting positive thinking, dialogue and social harmony.
Addressing the gathering, chief guest Professor Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Rashid said that the contemporary global landscape is facing political tensions, regional conflicts and economic challenges. He emphasized that sustainable global peace cannot be achieved through military strength alone, stressing the importance of justice, respect for human rights, mutual understanding and meaningful dialogue.
He said that Islam conveys a universal message of peace, justice, tolerance and respect for humanity. He emphasized the responsibility of Muslims to present these values to the world through their conduct and actions.
Professor Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Rashid further stated that global tensions should be addressed through wisdom, dialogue and constructive engagement rather than emotional reactions. He also highlighted the importance of cooperation and stronger relations among Muslim countries, saying that collective strategies and cooperation can contribute to a more effective role for the Muslim world in international affairs.
Speaking about the younger generation, he stressed the need to equip young people with modern knowledge, research skills, ethical values and religious awareness, noting that they will play an important role in shaping the future.
Guest speaker Professor Owais Salafi described young people as an important intellectual and educational asset of the Muslim community and emphasized the need to channel their academic, creative and intellectual abilities in positive directions.
Rana Khalid Akram said that Islam provides a comprehensive way of life and that intellectual guidance for young people in accordance with contemporary challenges is an important need of the time.
Other speakers, including Aqasha Mujahid, Umar Farooq Kailani, Abdul Razzaq Bajwa, Fayyaz Mughal, Abdul Waheed and Abdul Haseeb, also addressed the gathering. The speakers discussed global peace, human values, justice and the importance of positive intellectual and moral development among young people.
In his presidential address, Professor Azmatullah Bhutta thanked the chief guest, distinguished guests and participants. He said that contemporary intellectual and social challenges can be addressed effectively by seeking guidance from the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah. He described the intellectual and moral development of young people as one of the core objectives of Izhar.
Quoting the Quranic verse, “And Allah invites to the Home of Peace,” Professor Bhutta prayed for peace and security for humanity and for the promotion of love, goodwill, tolerance and mutual respect in society.
The session concluded with participants reaffirming the importance of promoting Islam’s message of peace, constructive intellectual activities and meaningful dialogue. A dinner was hosted for the distinguished guests and participants at the conclusion of the event.
