The Department of English, International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), organized the launch ceremony of the inaugural issue of Inksight, its first digital literary magazine, marking a significant academic and creative milestone for the department. The initiative aims to provide a structured platform for student expression while encouraging critical engagement, literary exploration, and intellectual development.
Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed, President International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), attended the ceremony as Guest of Honour. He appreciated the collective efforts of the editorial and design teams and extended his best wishes for the magazine’s continued growth. Taking keen interest in the initiative, the President actively engaged with the presenters and posed thoughtful questions regarding the magazine’s thematic direction and creative scope, reflecting the university leadership’s support for student-led academic ventures.
Dr. Fauzia Janjua, Dean Faculty of Languages and Literature, acknowledged the collaborative contributions of faculty members, the student editorial board, and contributors, noting that such initiatives strengthen academic culture and creative confidence among students.
Dr. Saiyma Aslam, Chairperson Department of English, highlighted the pivotal role of faculty editors and the student editorial team in conceptualizing and executing Inksight. She also outlined academic and co-curricular measures undertaken to revitalize the department. The restructuring of the English Literary Society and the range of literary activities conducted during the semester were further explained by Dr. Sheeraz Dasti, along with Mr. Ali and Ms. Sara Rashid, representing the male and female campuses respectively.
Introducing the magazine, Dr. Amal Sayyid shared Inksight’s vision and mission, while commending the dedication and professionalism of the student editorial and design teams. Dr. Amal Sayyid also acknowledged the valuable technical support extended by the IT Department, particularly appreciating Mr. Junaid Azhar, Deputy Director IT, and Mr. Usman Ali, Assistant Director IT, for their instrumental role in the successful digital launch of Inksight.
Dr. Akhtar Aziz reflected on the significance of the magazine’s title, emphasizing the enduring relevance of human creativity and the written word in an era shaped by artificial intelligence.
Student editors Saba Khaliq and Huzaifa Mehmood briefed the audience on the selection and editing process, covering diverse genres including poetry, fiction, essays, reviews, and visual art. Dr. Farrukh Nadeem, while commenting on the submissions, appreciated the overall quality and depth of creative expression featured in the magazine.
The ceremony concluded with live readings by contributors Sumayya Arshad and Kamran Zameer, followed by closing remarks from Dr. Hafiz Abid Masood, who described Inksight as a publication reflecting international literary standards.
The first issue of Inksight is now available online and can be accessed through the official IIUI website link.
