Seminar on Countering Violent Extremism: Strengthening Civility and Integrity in Society

by the Punjab Center of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism, Home Department in collaboration with The Center of Civility and Integrity Department of Punjab University, at Al-Razi Hall, New Campus, Punjab University.
Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi, Home Secretary Punjab was the Chief Guest and Prof. Dr. Khalid Mehmood, Pro-Vice Chancellor presided over the session. Mr Ahmer Bilal Soofi (Former Minister for Law), Gen Ghulam Mustafa-Retd. (National Security Analyst) and Maulana Syed Abdul Khabeer Azad spoke as guest of honour and Key note speakers. Dr Tehmina Aslam Ranjha, Mr Mansoor Azam Qazi, Dr. Shabbir Ahmad khan and Dr Ahmad khawar Shahzad also shared valuable thoughts with the audience.
Dr Khawar dilated upon the genesis and prevalence of extremism, false narratives and counter narratives through a presentation from Punjab Center of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism, Home Department.He highlighted the significance of Paigham-e Pakistan to maintain, Peace, tranquility, brotherhood and interfaith harmony in the society through a documentary by ISPR.

Among the Keynotes speeches by extremism -countering maestros, five key areas were proposed in the Declaration, announced by the President of the session, Prof. Dr. Khalid Mehmood who stressed upon Youth engagement, rehabilitation, de-radicalization, women empowerment,religious and interfaith harmony and community engagement to build a resilient, safer and peaceful Pakistan.

Dr Tehmina highlighted the imperative role of women at the frontline fighters to counter violent Extremism. Mr Mansoor Azam Qazi focused the role of media in Countering online extremism, hate material and cyber extremism. Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad stressed the significance of Seera(SAW) and the Paigham e Pakistan. Gen Ghulam Mustafa(Retd.) pointed out the perception built by the mobile and stressed upon cyber warfare and it’s impact on extremism landscape.Mr Ahmer Bilal Soofi articulately discussed the Quranic covenants and the law of the land under the title of revelation to legislation: a journey towards a peaceful Pakistan.
Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi, Chief Guest, stressed upon the young generation to become a front line players of the development of Pakistan as they are the future of this nation and they have to steer the society with their luminous character.
Souvenirs were distributed among the eminent key Note speakers and guests.