SSUET Chancellor appoints new convenors

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Chancellor of the Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET), Mohammed Akbar Ali Khan, who was recently elected as the President of the Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association (AMUOBA), has appointed convenors for the university’s three different departments. 

According to a SSUET notification, noted poet Tariq Sabzwari, has been assigned the convenorship of Literary, Art and Culture Forum while Wasif Nazar Siddiqi has been handed over the department of Sports and Masood Alam has taken over the responsibility of Research Journal and Newsletter. 

These appointments are expected to help imbibe students’ interest in research, sports and cultural activities in the SSUET, which has had enviable record in extracurricular activities since its inception more than three decades ago. 

Tariq Sabzwari has vast experience in promoting creative and cultural activities and so is Wasif Nazar who has been efficiently organizing successful sports events and giving boost to available talent. 

Masood Alam is greatly interested in promoting quality research work and it is being hoped that under his convenorship there would be significant progress in this important field. 

Felicitating the newly appointed convenors, Chancellor Akbar Ali Khan described them possessing the best of abilities and outstanding vision, expressing the hope that these departments, under their able guidance, would set new traditions of progress and enhancement.

With their vast experience and proven capabilities, all the three convenors are expected to add value to the institution and restore its pride. 

Newly-elected AMUOBA President committed to revive past credibility

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The President of the Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association (AMUOBA) and the Chancellor Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET), Mohammed Akbar Ali Khan, has pledged to restore the past glory of the AMUOBA for the attainment of its cherished objectives. 

Chairing the first meeting of the Association after his election as its President, he described his success as a momentous occasion to lead this glorious organization, and he committed to go ahead keeping in view its history and traditions. 

“Our mission is not only to revive its past credibility but also conceive new ideas for its future role,” he declared. 

Akbar Ali Khan pointed out that the mission of new leadership will be to bring educational reforms to match the present-day educational challenges and for this purpose curriculum changes would be introduced. 

“I promise to adopt modern day teaching practices by adopting modern technology and thus promote the creative talents of our youth by focusing mainly on research,” he announced. In this regard, he said, research activities would be encouraged by seeking international cooperation. 

The AMUOBA’s General Secretary, Jaffar Nazir Usmani, declared that his target would be to come up the expectations by utilizing his best of abilities and implement the promises made will be the foremost priority. 

“The time has come to move forward with new determination and ensure bringing positive changes by promoting mutual cooperation,” he observed. 

Speaking on the occasion, Erum Akbar described their success in the election as a result of teamwork and the anticipated success in future will also depend on mutual cooperation. 

She called for a comprehensive planning in the wake of the new situation and said she has not forgotten the time when Akbar Ali Khan’s membership was revoked and dislodged from AMUOBA. 

“However, no injustice will be allowed to be done to anyone and all decisions would be taken purely on performance and merit,” she thundered. 

Engr Adil Usman, a former AMUOBA President and Chancellor SSUET, hoped that associate institutions would be managed in a better way and the mission of late Zakir Ali Khan will be taken forward. 

Noted Aligarhian and poet Tariq Sabzwari recalled when the culture and traditions of Aligarh were set aside by introducing the culture of self-centered objectives. According to him it would take time to overcome the mismanagement of the past 10 years. 

The AMUOBA members expressed their views with an open heart and came out with their suggestions which, they contended, would include short-term and long-term strategies and introduce such technologies having present day marketing values. 

According to them a new era of the history of the AMUOBA and the SSUET has just dawned in which it would be most imperative to strengthen the relationship with industry and academia. 

Surprisingly some of the members complained that it was not in their knowledge before of them being members of AMUOBA. Farrukh Nizami, son of SSUET’s founder and first Chancellor Engr Z.A Nizami and Engr Adil Usman who served SSUET as Chancellor after the death of the founder were conspicuous with their presence.

Karachi Theosophical Society undertakes Human Library project

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Karachi Theosophical Society (KTL), established in 1896, has undertaken the Human Library Project in Pakistan as an initiative dedicated to fostering human understanding, tolerance, and peace. 

It aligned closely with the first objective of the Theosophical Society which is the establishment of a universal brotherhood transcending social and cultural divides. 

The teachers, students, staff, and volunteers of Jamshed Memorial School, under the Theosophical Order of Service (TOS), were honoured for their dedication in organizing the first-ever Human Library session at Jamshed Memorial Hall on February 22. 

It was in the fitness of things that the historic Jamshed Memorial Hall, named after Jamshed Nusserwanjee Mehta, the first elected Mayor of Karachi, was chosen the venue of such a wonderful initiative which could catch the imagination of those in search of learning and knowledge. 

The event was designed to promote deep understanding and meaningful connections. Participants engaged as ‘books’ or ‘readers’ to share life stories that challenged stereotypes, break down biases, and cultivate empathy. 

Through authentic conversations and attentive listening, the Human Library became a space for personal growth, mutual understanding, and the celebration of diversity, strengthening shared humanity. 

The programme commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran’s Verse of Light: ‘God is the light of the heavens and the earth’ and it was followed by Dr Annie Besant’s universal prayer. 

Mushtaq Jindani, Secretary General, TOS, in his welcome address, warmly recognized the efforts of the members of the KTS and the TOS besides the volunteers, teachers and students of Jamshed Memorial School who worked diligently to ensure the smooth execution of the event. 

The event was structured into four 30-minute sessions, where readers engaged with four different books. Each book represented a diverse background, offering perspectives on societal challenges, resilience, and personal growth. 

The sessions fostered open dialogue, breaking down barriers and deepening mutual understanding. 

Upon arrival, the guests were graciously welcomed at the reception desk, where they were registered and provided with name tags. Each participant chose whether to be a book or a reader. Name tags were prominently displayed, and readers noted their selected book name. 

The Human Library provided a platform for personal storytelling, becoming a space of collective empowerment where diverse individuals celebrated the strength found in differences. 

The event successfully created an inclusive space for dialogue, challenged preconceptions, and fostered connections that transcended cultural and social boundaries. 

As the world becomes more digitally connected yet socially fragmented, the Human Library continues to evolve. 

Some exciting developments include virtual human libraries where digital sessions allow people from around the world to engage with human books, making the initiative accessible to those in remote areas or those who may feel unsafe attending physical events. 

In regions with religious, racial, or political tensions, Human Library events provide a safe space for constructive dialogue, helping to counter misinformation and stereotypes. 

At its core, the Human Library is a movement of hope. It demonstrates that deep understanding can dismantle walls of prejudice and foster a more tolerant, compassionate, and united world. 

In an era of increasing social divisions, the Human Library stands as a powerful reminder that conversations, not conflicts, are the key to bridging our differences. 

The Human Library, having originated at Copenhagen, Denmark, in 2000, is a global initiative that tackles societal prejudices by fostering dialogue. It follows a unique model where individuals who have faced discrimination, social exclusion, or stigma serve as living books. 

The readers engage with them through open conversations, gaining insight into their experiences and challenging their own biases. Currently, the Human Library operates in over 80 countries, both through permanent libraries and event-based initiatives.

Akbar Ali Khan elected AMUOBA President, takes over as SSUET Chancellor

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Akbar Ali Khan, a son of the illustrious Engr Zakir Ali Khan, the close associate of Engr Z A Nizami, the founder of Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET), has taken over as its fourth Chancellor, replacing Jawaid Anwar. 

At the time of the establishment of the SSUET in 1993, Engr Nizami was its first Chancellor and, after his death in 2013, Engr Adil Usman and Jawaid Anwar occupied the coveted position. 

Akbar Ali Khan has become the SSUET’s Chancellor by virtue of his election as the President of the Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association (AMUOBA). 

The AMUOBA elections were held after a gap of 10 years in which the Zakir Ali Khan Panel ousted the Alig United Panel by clinching 158 votes as against 130 bagged by the opponents. 

After taking over the university’s Chancellorship, Akbar Ali Khan presided over the first meeting of AMUOBA’s Executive Committee in which Adil Askari, Atif Nazar and Mohammed Yamin were elected as Vice-Presidents while Jaffar Nazir Usmani was elected as General Secretary.

In his introductory address, the Chancellor pledged to set aside the bickering of the past and called for focusing on the future. He admitted that those who stood firmly by his side during the difficult period worth more appreciation than the clapping on their success achieved. 

Meanwhile in the Executive Committee important decisions were taken for future line of action and for rectification of SSUET’s worsened conditions. 

He stated that time keeps moving which continues teaching many lessons most importantly the deep feelings of responsibilities that now rest on their shoulders for a bright future of the university and its students. 

He made it clear that only joint and united efforts could lead towards cherished objectives. In this regard all out efforts would be made to attain the goals set for the purpose. 

Speaking on the occasion the General Secretary-elect, Jaffar Nazir Usmani, declared that no stone would be left unturned to strengthen and make successful the objectives of AMUOBA and its associated institutions. 

The Vice President, Adil Askari, declared that the foremost priority of the newly elected body would be for the advancement of AMUOBA and its institutions without compromising on principles. He believed that the souls of Z A Nizami and Zakir Ali Khan must have been happy that after ten years such leadership has come forward who truly respect their elders. 

Meanwhile the faculty and staff of the SSUET gave a vigorous welcome to the Chancellor and assured him of their full cooperation stating that they would fully follow their directives to be taken for the university’s advancement and accomplishment of the their mission. 

The Vice-Chancellor, Dr Munawar Hussain, was relieved of his responsibilities and handed over the charge to Dr Jaffar Nazir Usmani who is also the General Secretary of AMUOBA.

Aziz Memon condoles demise of Prof Dr Ejaz Vohra

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Aziz Memon, National Chair, Pakistan Polio Plus Committee, has condoled the death of Prof Dr Ejaz Ahmed Vohra, a renowned general physician and cardiologist, who passed away in Karachi on February 7. 

“Besides being a distinguished physician, he was also a respected academician, credited to have mentored a large number of doctors in the country. Indeed, he was an irreplaceable asset to the medical fraternity and his services to the field of medicine were well and truly remarkable,” Aziz Memon, Co-founder, Karachi Festival of Books and Libraries (KFBL), declared while expressing deep sorrow over his sad demise recently. 

“Professor Ejaz Vohra, throughout his life, remained an ardent reader of books. Despite being laid low by illness last year, he continued extending his warm support to the initiative of KFBL, which served as a source of encouragement to all of us,” Aziz Memon complimented. 

It may be recalled that Professor Ejaz Vohra was born in Madras, now called Chennai. He was a graduate of the famous Dow Medical College (DMC), Karachi, from the class of 1959. He served as the Director of Postgraduate Studies (Clinical) at the Dr Ziauddin Medical University, Principal of the Karachi Medical & Dental College, Regional Representative of the Royal College of Physicians (Edinburgh), Editor-in-Chief of the Pakistan Journal of Medical and Dental Sciences, besides holding many other prestigious positions throughout his illustrious career. 

He was hailed to have played a key role in the conferences and conventions organized by medical associations, generously sharing his wisdom with generations of doctors. Even during his illness, he remained committed to the noble cause and participated in a recent convention, demonstrating his unwavering dedication.

PCMA stands with business community against proposed 400% hike in security deposits

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Ahmed Chinoy, Chairman, Pakistan Cloth Merchants Association (PCMA), has expressed strong support for the business community’s unified opposition to the proposed 400% increase in security deposits by Power Distribution Companies (Discos). 

“We raise our significant concerns regarding this proposal and such a substantial increase would impose excessive financial burdens on consumers, particularly manufacturers and exporters, thereby negatively impacting industrial competitiveness,” he declared in a statement issued on February 10. 

“The proposed hike lacks transparency and logical justification, potentially discouraging industrial expansion and countering government initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth and increasing exports,” he highlighted. 

“We stand in solidarity with the business community in opposing this unjustified increase. Such a move threatens to undermine the competitiveness of our industries and places an undue financial strain on businesses already grappling with rising production costs,” the PCMA Chairman stated. 

Ahmed Chinoy urged the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) to consider the valid concerns raised by various stakeholders and to reject the proposed increase, advocating for Discos to focus on improving revenue collection efficiency rather than imposing additional financial burdens on consumers. A public hearing on this matter is scheduled for February 12 where the stakeholders will have the opportunity to present their objections and recommendations.

Ahmed Chinoy opposes trade body elections in 2025

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Ahmed Chinoy, Chairman, Pakistan Cloth Merchants Association (PCMA), has resented the proposed holding of trade body elections in 2025, as the last elections were conducted only a few months ago in September 2024.

“The decision to call for fresh elections within such a short span undermines the stability and continuity required for effective governance within trade organisations,” he reckoned. 

“The recent elections, held as per the Trade Organisations Ordinance, were conducted transparently and in accordance with established legal procedures. Calling for another round of elections in 2025 disregards the mandate given by the business community and disrupts the functioning of trade bodies at a critical time when economic and policy continuity is essential,” Ahmed Chinoy, a respected leader of the business community, pointed out. 

“Holding elections so soon after the previous ones is not only unnecessary but also counterproductive. It creates uncertainty among trade organisations and diverts focus from crucial economic and business development initiatives,” he added. 

The PCMA Chairman urged the government to reconsider this decision and allow the elected representatives to complete their term as per the existing framework, advising that any amendments to the Trade Organisations Ordinance should be made in consultation with stakeholders to ensure that trade bodies operate in a stable and effective manner. 

“We call upon all relevant authorities to engage in dialogue with the business community before implementing any decisions that could impact the functioning of trade organizations,” he concluded.

Happiness is indeed not something readymade; it comes from our actions

By Zara Waqas

Dalai Lama had famously declared that happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions. This quote has fascinated me immensely. 

Happiness is a subjective phenomenon that everyone seeks in their own way. It varies from person to person and it can be influenced by different factors. 

Generally, we search for happiness in things, people, money, and experiences that we believe will bring us a sense of fulfilment and joy. However, happiness is not something that can be bought, borrowed, or begged for. It is a state of mind that can only be attained by taking action to nurture and cultivate it within oneself. 

According to Denis Waitley, happiness cannot be travelled to, owned, earned, worn, or consumed. 

Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, and gratitude. It's all about our thinking. 

If we have a habit of looking at negative aspect of everything, and if we are unable to accept reality or cannot admit our mistakes, then what will happen in the end? Let me tell you, we will lose our confidence and grace. 

Blaming others for our mistakes or faults will turn us cruel and will affect our relations with classmates, friends, and relatives, and in the end, we will be left alone in this world. 

There is a simple formula for happiness. Try to help others by all means, make ways for others to progress, meet people with crystal clear hearts and sweet smiles on your face, use polite words, be humble and kind, be honest in your deeds and last but not the least, keep doing what makes you happy. 

Of course, watching videos or playing games all the time on mobile or tablets may not serve the purpose. 

Let us be realistic and use our time and energy wisely and positively. Because our future and happiness both are in our own hands. 

Always remember, happiness is a choice and it can only come from within you. Let us learn to appreciate all small blessings that we take for granted. 

It all depends on us, how we take things. It is upto us whether we make life a burden for ourselves or embrace it with open arms. 

I have read somewhere that life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what is there until you open and taste it. How true, isn’t it? 

Outside factors and other people can also affect our happiness. If someone close to us dies or if we fall sick or pick up a serious injury all of these things are not going to make us feel happy. 

Grief and feelings of sadness are all part and parcel of life and we need to go through them to appreciate all the good things in life that make us happy. 

Happiness is a result of our choices and mindset, not something that just happens to us. 

Another beautiful saying of Charles Spurgeon is that it's not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness.

Younis Hashmi, other librarians visit Education Expo, Book Fair in Lahore

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The fifth edition of the Education Expo and Book Fair, organized by the Nazaria Pakistan Trust at Aiwan-e-Quaid-e-Azam in Johar Town, Lahore, from January 10 to 12 attracted a large number of scholars, educationists, intellectuals, media personalities, students and teachers, besides librarians. 

The tastefully decorated stalls of the educational institutions, publishers and booksellers remained the focus of attraction for the visitors, who braved the cold weather and foggy conditions to roads to be a part of the three-day annual event in which entry was free of cost. 

Younis Hashmi, a former chief librarian of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), having relocated in Canada following his retirement from service, made it a point to visit the Education Expo and Book Fair where he was warmly greeted by fellow librarians. 

He met Sher Afzal Malik, Librarian, Quaid-e-Azam Public Library, who is also Secretary Finance of the Pakistan Library Association (PLA), Punjab Branch, Muhammad Sadiq, Librarian, University of Education, Lower Mall campus, who is the Assistant Secretary of PLA Punjab Branch and Mukarram Nawaz, Librarian, Archives department, Government of Punjab. 

Younis Hashmi, one of the very few librarians, working proactively for the cause of the profession, was delighted to exchange views with the librarians of Lahore who also believed in keep things moving for their community. 

“It is really heartening and heartwarming to meet such wonderful librarians who are committed to the profession. Their presence in the Education Expo and Book Fair reflected their passion for books and other scholastic activities,” he complimented.

ESUP hosts poetry competition at SZABIST

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The English-Speaking Union of Pakistan (ESUP) organized a poetry recitation competition at the Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology University (SZABIST), Karachi, on January 9. A total of 35 students participated from 18 different schools participated in the event which was a new addition to the many educational activities it has been holding from time to time. 

Mohammad Ali Atif of Happy Home High School was declared the winner of the competition while Maria Asif of Mama Parsi Girls Secondary School, and Burhanuddin M Petiwala from MSB Education Institute, finished as the 1st runner-up and the 2nd runner-up respectively. 

Shahznaz Wazir Ali, President, SZABIST, along with Aziz Memon, Patron-in-Chief of ESUP, Pervez H Mardaswala, President of ESUP, and Irfan Qureshi, Senior Vice President, ESUP, distributed awards and certificates to the position holders and participants.