Debates essential for solving problems, says PU VC

By Farzana Chaudhry – Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE: Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali has said that debates play a vital role in solving problems, while books help broaden knowledge and build confidence.

He expressed these views at the launch of two books — Language, Gender, and Power and Reimagining Education in Pakistan — written by educationist and former AIOU VC Prof Dr Shahid Siddiqui. The event was held at the PU Institute of Energy & Environmental Engineering.

A large number of academics, researchers, faculty members and students attended the ceremony.

Dr Muhammad Ali urged students to adopt reading habits, saying the world is changing rapidly and those who want to lead this change must focus on learning, not just on obtaining degrees. He said that 30 percent of learning happens inside classrooms and 70 percent outside, which highlights the importance of such academic activities.

He praised Dr Siddiqui for his work on education, politics and gender, describing him as a hardworking and insightful scholar.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Dr Shahid Siddiqui said Pakistan needs graduates who understand societal challenges and think critically. He said his books reflect his practical experiences and are written in a way that students, researchers, policymakers and the general public can easily understand.

Other speakers, including Dr Tayyaba Tamim, Dr Abdul Qayyum Chaudhry and Dr Farhan Naveed Yousaf, appreciated the author’s contribution and said his work opens new avenues for academic discussion.

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PU hosts 20th Muslim Psychology Conference

The Punjab University Institute of Applied Psychology, in collaboration with several organizations including the Society for Advancement of Muslim Psychology and Pakistan Psychological Association, organized the 20th “Muslim Psychology Conference.”

PU VC Dr Muhammad Ali, prominent psychologists, researchers and students attended the event.

In his address, Dr Muhammad Ali highlighted the importance of psychology in society and praised the organizers. He said psychologists played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasized that love for one’s country is an essential part of Muslim psychology.

IAP Director and PPA President Prof Dr Rafia Rafique said the conference focused on “Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies: Muslim Perspective,” attracting experts and students for meaningful discussions.

Several renowned psychologists, including Dr Ali Akbar, Dr Amjad Tufail, Riaz Fatiyana and others, participated as keynote speakers and panelists.