A thought-provoking panel discussion titled “Promotion of Interfaith Harmony: Role of Different Religions” was organised by the Interfaith Harmony Society with the collaboration of Directorate of Interfaith Relations, Minhaj University Lahore, as part of the 53rd Common Training Programme for CSS probationary officers at Civil Services Academy (CSA). The session aimed to foster mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation among followers of diverse faiths, highlighting the universal values of peace, compassion, and tolerance shared by all religions.
The discussion featured esteemed scholars representing different religious traditions:
(1) Dr Harman Robough (Christian Scholar: Head of the School of Religion and Philosophy, MUL)
(2) Dr Shanthi Kumar (Buddhist Scholar: Lecturer at School of Religion and Philosophy, MUL)
(3) Dr Sardar Tarunjit Singh Botalia (Sikh Scholar)
(4) Dr Muhammad Farooq Rana (Muslim Scholar: Director FMRi)
Panel discussion was moderated by Miss Kainat Malik. The panelists emphasized that the foundation of every faith rests upon love, peace, and service to humanity. They discussed their respective religion’s concept of interfaith harmony. They appreciated and highlighted the role and efforts of Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri and the Minhaj University Lahore for the promotion of interfaith harmony across the globe at national and international level. The discussion was followed by an interactive Q&A session where participants raised thoughtful questions on practical steps to promote interreligious understanding in Pakistan’s multicultural context.
The Director-General of Civil Services Academy (CSA) respected Farhan Aziz Khawaja appreciated the participation of all scholars and CSS probationary officers for making the event intellectually enriching and spiritually uplifting. He also appreciated the role of Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri and the Minhaj University Lahore for the promotion of interfaith harmony. He applauded the struggle of Mr Suhail Ahmad Raza (Director Interfaith Relations, MUL) for the promotion of peace, harmony and integration. He reiterated that interfaith harmony is not merely a dialogue but a shared journey towards global peace. The session left a deep impression on participants, encouraging them to embody the principles of empathy, respect, and unity in their professional and personal lives.
The Interfaith Harmony Society was commended for its initiative in creating an intellectually vibrant and spiritually enriching platform that truly celebrated the beauty of human diversity.
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