Key points
- Iqbal’s teachings stress faith, knowledge, and action
- Government launches “Uraan Pakistan” to empower youth
- President Zardari renews commitment to Iqbal’s principles
ISLAMABAD: On the occasion of Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s birth anniversary on November 9, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to providing education to the youth that not only supports their livelihood but also enhances their intellect and character, in line with Iqbal’s vision.
In his message, the Prime Minister paid tribute to Iqbal’s monumental contribution as the “Poet of the East” and the “architect of Pakistan.” He acknowledged Iqbal’s role in inspiring the Muslim community of the subcontinent, especially his ability to ignite a spark of hope in a nation oppressed by colonialism.
“Iqbal’s teachings focused on the importance of faith, knowledge, and action as the foundation of a thriving nation. His philosophy continues to offer guidance in contemporary national and global contexts,” said the Prime Minister.
He highlighted Iqbal’s belief in the youth as the future architects of the nation, urging that the ideological formation of Pakistan’s education system should be shaped by Iqbal’s thoughts, which remain crucial for the country’s future.
Call for brotherhood
To realise Iqbal’s vision, the government has initiated several programmes, such as “Uraan Pakistan,” aimed at providing modern education, skills, and employment opportunities to the youth. The Prime Minister also noted Iqbal’s dream of a united Muslim Ummah and a peaceful world, stressing the relevance of Iqbal’s call for brotherhood over sectarianism, love over hatred, and justice over the use of power.
In a similar vein, President Asif Ali Zardari, also marking Iqbal’s birth anniversary, urged the nation to renew its commitment to the principles of Allama Iqbal.
He emphasised the importance of drawing strength from Iqbal’s ideals to create a prosperous, peaceful, and united Pakistan. He recalled how Iqbal’s vision helped ignite the spirit of independence and self-determination among Muslims in the Subcontinent.
Political representation
Zardari reflected on Iqbal’s work, including his famous addresses and literary works like Asrar-e-Khudi, Rumuz-e-Bekhudi, and Bang-e-Dara, which explored themes of identity, freedom, and spirituality.
President Zardari praised Iqbal’s insistence on political representation for Muslims, recognising it as a fundamental element in the formation of Pakistan’s national identity. He concluded by praying that Iqbal’s vision continues to guide Pakistan’s progress and inspire future generations.
Both leaders called for a renewed focus on Iqbal’s thoughts to make Pakistan a nation that aligns with the dream he envisioned—one grounded in knowledge, love, tolerance, and justice.
