The third workshop under the IRI International Postdoctoral Fellowship 2024–2025 (Group-I) began on Monday at the Dr. Ishtiaq Hussain Qureshi Hall, Islamic Research Institute (IRI), International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI).
The week-long workshop, titled “Review of Performance, Analysis of Data, and Articulation of Research”, focuses on presenting and refining ongoing research projects by the fellows. Participants will receive detailed feedback and academic input from senior scholars and resource persons throughout the sessions.
The event was formally inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, Director General of IRI. He was joined by Dr. Hafiz Aftab Ahmad, Head of the Department of Comparative Study of World Religions, and Prof. Dr. Safir Akhtar, who are among the key facilitators of the workshop.
Addressing the fellows, Dr. Zia-ul-Haq emphasized the importance of critical peer engagement and encouraged participants to maintain a high standard of academic integrity in their research. He noted that the workshop is an important part of IRI’s ongoing effort to build research capacity and strengthen scholarly networks in Islamic studies and related disciplines.
Dr. Hafiz Aftab Ahmad underscored the value of comparative research and interdisciplinary dialogue in fostering a broader understanding of contemporary religious and social issues.
The postdoctoral fellows, drawn from various academic institutions, will present progress reports on their research work. Sessions will include data analysis, methodological critique, and discussions aimed at improving the structure and articulation of their studies.
The IRI International Postdoctoral Fellowship is a year-long program aimed at promoting original research and enhancing scholarly output in the fields of Islamic thought, history, jurisprudence, and contemporary issues. The workshop marks a mid-point in the fellowship cycle and serves as a platform for constructive academic exchange.
The program will conclude at the end of the week, with fellows expected to incorporate received feedback into the final phase of their research projects.