Post-Graduate Training Workshop on
Methodologies of Sīrah Writing
January 19-23, 2026
09:30 Am – 03:00 Pm
Introduction
In the light of the raison d’être of the Islamic Research Institute the Post-Graduate Training Programme of Academic and Creative Writing is designed to impart basic training in creative writing. In continuation of these programmes, International Center of Excellence for Sīrah Studies, Islamic Research Institute, International Islamic University Islamabad, is organizing a specialized Post-Graduate Training Workshop on Methodologies of Sīrah Writing. This one-week programme is designed to enhance the academic capacity of participants in understanding the diverse methodological approaches to Sīrah the life, character, and mission of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Writing on the blessed Sirah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is a lasting honor for every individual. This program is being organized to guide those devoted scholars and writers who seek to pursue this sacred endeavor. So, the Workshop focuses on contemporary and classical dimensions of Sīrah scholarship, sensitivity and protocol in writing on the Prophet’s life, analytical engagement with Orientalist writings, and critical evaluation of modern academic trends in Sīrah Studies. It aims to strengthen participants’ ability to approach Sīrah with academic rigor, methodological clarity, and scholarly balance. The training format would be a combination of various pedagogical techniques such as lecturing, interactive sessions, group discussions, presentations and teamwork. This Workshop will Provide postgraduate scholars in-depth understanding of methodological and theoretical approaches to Sīrah studies in both classical sources and contemporary trends in Sīrah writing. Cultivation of sensitivity, respect, and balance in writing about the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and Developing analytical skills necessary for the critical evaluation of Orientalist writings and modern academic narratives are also in Main Focus of the Workshop.
Modules of the Workshop
- Methodological Foundations of Sīrah Studies
Exploration of primary sources, interpretative frameworks, and historiographical traditions in Sīrah scholarship. - Classical and Contemporary Dimensions of Sīrah Writing
Comparative study of early Muslim biographers and modern Sīrah writers, highlighting evolving trends in narrative structure and analysis. - Sensitivities, Protocols, and Ethics in Sīrah Scholarship
Examination of reverential conventions, ethical principles, and scholarly responsibilities when writing about the Prophet’s life. - Analytical Study and Critique of Orientalist Works on Sīrah
Academic review of major Orientalist contributions, methodological biases, and the Muslim scholarly response. - Modern Academic Trends and Challenges in Sīrah Studies
Discussion on current research paradigms, interdisciplinary approaches, and critical issues in global Sīrah discourse. - Use of Digital Tools and Resources in Sīrah Research
Training in digital databases, textual analysis software, and online archives for modern Sīrah research. - Library Work and Exercises Based on Selected Sīrah Texts
Guided reading and interpretive practice using selected classical and contemporary Sīrah texts.
Expected Outcomes
- Enhanced understanding of methodological frameworks in Sīrah Studies
- Improved analytical skills for engaging with classical and modern Sīrah literature
- Ability to critically assess Orientalist scholarship and contemporary academic debates
- Strengthened capacity to write, evaluate, and interpret Sīrah-related texts with scholarly precision
- Gaining familiarity with modern digital tools that enhance research and documentation in Islamic studies, Specially in field of Sirah Writing
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must have completed at least 16 years of education from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification from Deeni Madāris, (Shahadtul Alamiyyah)
Registration & Fee Submission
Registration Fee: PKR 2,000
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/rYCMFKCCcwceJZpi8
Account Title IRI Grant
Account No. 50060010074103 | Habib Bank (HBL)
The fee can also be deposited directly in Account’s Office Room No. 42, First Floor, Islamic Research Institute, IIUI, Faisal Masjid Campus, Islamabad
Attach the proof of Payment of Registration fee on google form.
Venue
Islamic Research Institute (IRI),
International Islamic University Islamabad,
Faisal Masjid Campus, Islamabad
Mode of Participation
This Workshop will be held on Campus. However, Interested scholars from outside Islamabad/Rawalpindi may also join the workshop Online via ZOOM.
Key Dates
- Registration Deadline: January 14, 2026 (Wednesday)
- Commencement of Training: January 19, 2026 (Monday)
Workshop Coordinators
Mr. Ateeq-Ur-Rehman Chughtai
Director, (Trainings & Publication), IRI
Email: [email protected]
Dr. Muhammad Ajmal Farooq
Associate Editor, Fikr-o-Nazr, IRI
Phone: +92-51-9261761 Ext. 303
Email: [email protected]
Mr. Mubashir Hussain
Research Associate, IRI
Office No. 60, Islamic Research Institute, IIU, Faisal Masjid Campus, Islamabad
Phone: +92-51-9260278, +92-51-9261762 Ext. 297
Cell: +92-346-1985021
Email: [email protected]
Organized by
International Center of Excellence for Sīrah Studies (ICESS),
Islamic Research Institute, International Islamic University, Islamabad