By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: A comprehensive seminar titled “Countering Violent Extremism: Strengthening Civility and Integrity in Society” was held at Al-Razi Hall, New Campus, Punjab University, jointly organized by the Punjab Center of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE), Home Department, and the Center of Civility and Integrity, Punjab University.
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Home Secretary Punjab Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi graced the occasion as chief guest, while Pro-Vice Chancellor Punjab University Prof Dr Khalid Mehmood presided over the session. Former Federal Minister for Law Ahmer Bilal Soofi, National Security Analyst Gen Ghulam Mustafa (retd), and Chairman Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Maulana Syed Abdul Khabeer Azad participated as guests of honour and keynote speakers.
Dr Khawar Shahzad presented an in-depth briefing on the origins and spread of extremism, false narratives and counter-narratives, highlighting the role of the Paigham-e-Pakistan initiative in promoting peace, tolerance, brotherhood and interfaith harmony. An ISPR documentary on Paigham-e-Pakistan was also screened.
In his concluding remarks, Prof Dr Khalid Mehmood announced a declaration identifying five priority areas to effectively counter violent extremism, including youth engagement, rehabilitation and de-radicalization, women empowerment, religious and interfaith harmony, and community engagement to build a resilient and peaceful Pakistan.
Dr Tehmina Aslam Ranjha emphasized the critical role of women as frontline actors in countering extremism. Mansoor Azam Qazi discussed the responsibility of media in combating online extremism, hate content and cyber radicalization, while Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad underscored the relevance of Seerat-un-Nabi (SAW) and Paigham-e-Pakistan. Gen Ghulam Mustafa (retd) highlighted the impact of cyber warfare and digital perceptions on the evolving extremism landscape. Ahmer Bilal Soofi shed light on Quranic covenants and constitutional law in his address titled “From Revelation to Legislation: A Journey towards a Peaceful Pakistan.”
Addressing the participants, Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi stressed that the youth must play a leading role in Pakistan’s development, noting that their character and conduct will determine the future direction of society.
At the conclusion of the seminar, souvenirs were presented to the keynote speakers and distinguished guests in recognition of their contributions.
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