SALU Commemorates International Day of Peace with One-Day Grand Event

SALU Commemorates International Day of Peace with One-Day Grand Event
KHAIRPUR: Sep 21, 2026
Press Release
The Institute of International Relations and Peace Studies (IIR&PS) at Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Khairpur, organized a one-day seminar to commemorate the International Day of Peace under the theme "Peace, Dialogue and Sustainable Development." The event brought together distinguished scholars, faculty members, students, and representatives of civil society through both physical and online participation, highlighting the importance of peace, tolerance, dialogue, and sustainable development.
The seminar aimed to promote academic discourse on peacebuilding, non-violence, justice, and sustainable development while strengthening academic linkages at national and international levels. Distinguished guests from different parts of Pakistan, including Karachi and Islamabad, attended the event physically, while scholars and experts from other locations participated through video links.
Worthy Vice Chancellor of Shah Abdul Latif University, Meritorious Professor Dr. Yousuf Khushk, in his remarks shared online, emphasized the university's commitment to promoting peace, harmony, and academic excellence. He stated that the commemoration reflected SALU's dedication to fostering a culture of non-violence and dialogue. He appreciated the Institute of International Relations and Peace Studies for organizing the event and bringing together scholars, students, and civil society to work towards a more peaceful and sustainable future. He further reaffirmed SALU's role as a platform for constructive academic discourse and international collaboration.
Professor Dr. Syed Sikander Mehdi, a prominent scholar and a founding figure in peace studies in Pakistan, highlighted the relationship between peace and justice. In his remarks, he stated that peace is not merely the absence of war but also the presence of justice. He emphasized the importance of academic platforms such as the seminar in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical peacebuilding in South Asia. Emphasizing the importance of youth engagement, he noted that providing young people with opportunities to participate in meaningful dialogue was essential for building a more peaceful and harmonious society. He stated that universities should serve as centers of tolerance, dialogue, and mutual understanding, particularly in a world facing conflict and division. He further emphasized that sustainable development cannot be separated from lasting peace and that young people have a vital role in promoting these values. He also expressed his appreciation for the distinguished scholars and guests who attended the event, acknowledging their valuable contributions to the academic gathering.
Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Wahid Bux Jatoi, in his remarks, appreciated the successful organization of the International Day of Peace seminar and highlighted the significance of promoting global harmony through academic dialogue. He stated that the event reflected Shah Abdul Latif University's commitment to fostering peace, non-violence, and sustainable development.
Professor Dr. Liaquat Ali Chandio, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, underscored the significance of peace as a foundation for the prosperity of nations and the development of communities. He warmly welcomed the chief guest, the Vice Chancellor, distinguished scholars, faculty members, and students. He expressed his gratitude to the Vice Chancellor for his patronage and acknowledged the efforts of Mr. Sarfaraz Ali Korejo and the IIR&PS team in organizing the seminar. Addressing the students, he described them as future ambassadors of peace and emphasized that peace encompasses justice, education, dialogue, and opportunity.
Mr. Sarfaraz Ali Korejo, Incharge Director of the Institute of International Relations and Peace Studies, welcomed the participants and expressed his gratitude to the Vice Chancellor and university administration for their support. He stated that the institute had worked diligently to organize the program with the objectives of strengthening academic linkages and projecting SALU's positive image at the national and international levels. In his welcome address, Mr. Korejo highlighted the significance of observing the International Day of Peace at Shah Abdul Latif University, an institution located in the cultural and intellectual landscape of Sindh. He connected the event's theme with the values of universal love, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence associated with the teachings of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. He also acknowledged the academic and intellectual contributions of Professor Dr. Syed Sikander Mehdi and American peace scholar Matt Meyer, whose jointly edited book was featured during the event. He expressed appreciation for the active involvement of IIR&PS students, noting their contribution to organizing the seminar despite limited resources.
Professor Dr. Hassan Farooq Mashwani, Head of the School of Peace and Counter-Terrorism Studies at Minhaj University, Lahore, participated through a video link. Dr. Zulfiqar A. Kazmi, President of Discover Pakistan TV and Founder of The Common Grounds, USA, also joined the event through a video link, contributing to the international and cross-institutional dimension of the seminar. The combination of physical and online participation enabled the institute to engage scholars from different locations and foster academic exchange on peace studies, conflict resolution, and sustainable development. Qurban Mangi also spoke on topics related to the seminar's theme.
A major highlight of the event was the launch of two academic books: Building Peace: Reflection of Eminent Educators From Personal to Political and Professor Impact: Turning Knowledge Into Impact, Inspiring Minds - Building Futures, authored by Azhar Rizvi. The event also featured a book talk on a peace studies volume edited by Professor Syed Sikander Mehdi and Matt Meyer. The book brings together perspectives associated with peacebuilding, non-violence, and conflict transformation, offering an opportunity for academic reflection on peace studies from both the Global South and Global North.
Mr. Ishrat Hussain, Incharge of the Peace Department, highlighted the role of student societies and partner organizations in extending the message of peace beyond the university campus. A vote of thanks was presented by Ishrat Ali Mirani.
The event was attended by Dr. Sajad Ali Raeesi, Dr Javed Ujjan, Dr. Muhammad Ramzan Kolachi, Dr. Sahib Oad, Aijaz Ahmed Shaikh, Ms. Shahar Bano Soomro, and other faculty members, scholars, guests, and students.
Proceedings was conducted by Ms. Hafsa Agha and Amjad Ali Khuhro.
Media Section
Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur