LAHORE:Iqbal Academy Pakistan and the University of Lahore (UOL) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to promote Allama Dr Muhammad Iqbal’s philosophy through joint research, academic programmes and literary activities.
Iqbal Academy Pakistan Director Dr Abdul Rauf Rafiqi and University of Lahore Chairman Awais Raoof signed the agreement at a ceremony attended by university adviser Munir Ahmed, Chairman Iqbal Thought Society Dr Yousaf Shahid and Muhammad Ishaq.
Under the agreement, the two institutions would collaborate on research projects, seminars, conferences, lectures, book publications and Iqbal-related programmes for students and faculty members.
Earlier, Dr Rafiqi and Mr Raoof jointly inaugurated celebrations marking the 150th birth anniversary of Allama Iqbal by cutting a ribbon.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Rafiqi said Iqbal’s message of self-hood, self-awareness, action and personal development has universal relevance. He said universities could play a key role in introducing Iqbal’s philosophy to young people, adding that the academy was strengthening its links with universities and research institutions to promote Iqbal studies.
Awais Raoof said Iqbal’s philosophy offered intellectual guidance to young people, particularly through his concepts of selfhood, confidence, knowledge and action. He said the UOL would work with the academy to incorporate Iqbal’s thought into academic and research activities and promote awareness of his philosophy among students.