The International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) held a seminar titled “Research with Purpose: Aligning University Research with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” organized by the university’s SDGs Working Group.
The event focused on aligning academic research with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr. Zara Tahir from the Department of Technology and Management opened the session.
On the occasion, IIUI President, Professor Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed, delivered the keynote address, stressing the integration of SDGs into university research to address national and global challenges.
Dr. Ahmed Shuja appreciated the efforts of the university’s SDGs Working Group.
Dr. Noor Fatima, head of the Working Group, explained the 17 goals and highlighted government initiatives for their implementation.
Prof. Dr. Manzoor Khan Afridi, Dean Faculty of Social Sciences, discussed the importance of connecting Pakistan’s academic research with global SDG targets.
Dr. Sarah Amir, Department of Environmental Science, emphasized the importance of student involvement in SDG-based research and noted the availability of funding and partnerships. Dr. Engr. Nisar Ali Khan from Civil Engineering highlighted the impact of SDG research on university rankings.
Ms. Munazza Khalid, Department of Politics and International Relations, urged all IIUI faculties to realign research efforts with the SDGs and encouraged students to explore underrepresented areas.
Interactive SDG-themed activities allowed participants to engage with practical sustainability topics.
Dr. Nazim Rahim closed the discussion with insights on the academic and professional benefits of SDG-focused research. The seminar ended with remarks by Dr. Noor Fatima.