“Embrace Iqbal’s Spirit of Selfhood: AIOU VC Inspires Youth to Lead with Confidence and Resilience”

ISLAMABAD, Nov 8 (Alliance News): Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, Vice Chancellor of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), urged today’s youth to embrace Allama Iqbal’s philosophy of “selfhood” as a path to building confidence, resilience, and leadership.

In an interview with APP, Dr. Mahmood emphasized that Iqbal’s teachings on self-empowerment, strength, and societal harmony are essential for creating an ethical, peaceful society rooted in mutual respect.

Encouraging young people to incorporate Iqbal’s wisdom into their lives, he highlighted that Iqbal’s message is universal, offering valuable insights not only to Muslims but to humanity at large.

He further mentioned that AIOU has committed to preserving Iqbal’s legacy by establishing the ‘Iqbal Gallery’ – a cultural space featuring over 3,288 volumes, rare books, and artifacts related to the poet-philosopher.

Dr. Mahmood noted that this gallery serves as a research hub for scholars and students, providing access to letters, calligraphy, and iconic photographs that celebrate Iqbal’s life and contributions.

He highlighted AIOU’s commitment to promoting Iqbal’s thoughts through its Iqbal Studies Department, annual seminars, poetry contests, and visits to Iqbal’s mausoleum, which engage students deeply with his work.

The Vice Chancellor proudly added that the department has awarded over 500 M.Phil and 120 Ph.D. degrees in Iqbal Studies, with many graduates serving in prestigious roles nationally and internationally.