July 02, 2025-Aror University of Art, Architecture, Design and Heritage, Sukkur, proudly hosted a One-Day Symposium on โFostering Tolerance & Empathy in Academia for Cultivating a Harmonious Future in the Digital Age.โ The event brought together renowned scholars, panelists, and peacebuilding experts for a day of meaningful dialogue and creative expression.
The symposium was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Mr. Fayaz Hussain Abbasi, Commissioner Sukkur, who graced the Opening Ceremony with his presence. Welcoming the distinguished guests, The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr Zahid Hussain Khand emphasized the vital role of ethics, empathy, and character-building in shaping responsible citizens, highlighting that academic qualifications alone are not sufficient for societal progress.
The event featured a compelling Keynote Address by Prof. Dr. Rasool Bux Mahar, Vice Chancellor of BBSUTD Khairpur. He addressed the challenges facing higher education in promoting peace and empathy, and shared actionable insights for fostering inclusive learning environments.
A thought-provoking Panel Discussion followed, moderated by Dr. Pir Suhail Ahmed Sarhandi, Registrar of Aror University. The panel included:
โข Syed Hussain Haider, Senior Legal Adviser, UNODC
โข Mr. Iqbal Ahmed Detho, Chairman, Sindh Human Rights Commission
โข Mufti Nazeer Ahmed Usmani, President, Darul Uloom Sukkur
โข Prof. Ayaz Gul, Educationist, Poet & Writer
โข Ms. Marvi Awan, Human Rights Advocate
Panelists explored the intersection of academia, human rights, and social harmony, stressing the importance of interfaith dialogue, inclusive education, and digital awareness.
The symposium also featured a Creative Art Competition and a Short Animated Video Creation Competition, providing students with a platform to express their vision of tolerance and empathy through artistic mediums. Winners of both competitions were awarded cash prizes in a special Award Ceremony.
Another key highlight was the official launch of the Pak Harmony App, a digital initiative aimed at promoting social cohesion and understanding among youth.
In his Closing Remarks, Dr. Pir Suhail Ahmed Sarhandi extended sincere thanks to all keynote speakers, panelists, guests of honour, and the organizing team. He acknowledged their collective efforts in making the symposium a resounding success, reinforcing Aror Universityโs commitment to nurturing socially responsible citizens.
The Event was proudly funded by the European Union in collaboration with NACTA (National Counter Terrorism Authority) and the UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime)