Mr. Asif Ali Sherazi, Country Director of Islamic Relief Pakistan called on Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed, President of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), to discuss potential collaboration in the areas of social development, climate resilience, and academic engagement.
The meeting focused on expanding cooperation between IIUI and Islamic Relief, especially in the social sciences, climate change management, and research-based initiatives. Mr. Sherazi highlighted IR’s ongoing work in Pakistan’s higher education sector, noting their collaboration with various universities, including global institutions, in the development and humanitarian sectors. He emphasized Islamic Relief’s mission of serving vulnerable communities and shared its active role in areas such as water, health, education, food security, disaster risk reduction, and women empowerment. He also expressed hope for a future partnership with IIUI.
Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed briefed the delegation on the university’s ongoing research initiatives, particularly those aligned with social impact, SDGs, and climate change adaptation, highlighting that IIUI has been actively working on climate for the past two years. He informed about the university’s holistic academic structure, ongoing projects under ORIC, and its commitment to supporting science and technology-based solutions in line with national policies. He further discussed IIUI’s engagement in international research collaborations and its drive to enhance community-based development through enterprise and innovation.
Also present were Muhammad Salim, Management Coordinator, Islamic Relief Pakistan, Mr. Ayaz Ali, Additional Director (Finance) / In-Charge International Office at IIUI and Dr. Asadullah, Assistant Prof. Faculty of Shariah & Law / In-Charge foreign faculty office, International Office IIUI. The meeting concluded with an understanding to explore joint research ventures, community programs, and the possibility of signing a MoU to formalize future collaborations. Mr. Sherazi also informed that Islamic Relief’s Global Director plans to visit IIUI soon.
Prof. Dr. Ahmed Shuja Syed also stated that a follow-up meeting may be coordinated before the end of May to discuss the formalization of collaboration through MoUs, with the engagement of IIUI’s International Linkages Office.
Islamic Relief, founded in 1992 in Pakistan, operates in over 40 countries and is supported by major global organizations including the UN, World Bank, and the Pakistani diaspora, with a strong presence in humanitarian and advocacy work.