Promoting Culture of Peace and Social Acceptance of Diversity.

Faisalabad Sep 21: The University of Agriculture Faisalabad marked the International Peace Day. In this regards, a seminar titled, “Promoting Culture of Peace and Social Acceptance of Diversity” was organized by Department of Rural Sociology UAF on the directives of Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali. In his message, Dr Zulfiqar Ali said that peace is the foundation of progress and no nation can flourish without embracing tolerance and respect for diversity. He said by promoting dialogue, acceptance and equal opportunities, academia can help build a society where peace and harmony will prevail. Dean Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof Dr Babar Shahbaz said stressed that equal rights are the foundation of a just society. He said harmony and tolerance are essential to reduce conflicts Department Chairperson Dr Sadaf Mehmood said that peace must be ensured for every individual, regardless of social or economic background. She called for promoting unity and without these values, no society can truly achieve sustainable peace and development. Dr Unsa Jamshaid from Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF) highlighted that peace is being shattered worldwide due to growing intolerance and rigid attitudes. She emphasized that acceptance of diversity and different perspectives is the key to achieving peace. Jamshaid Gill, representative form Tearfund Global underlined the importance of cultural values in strengthening social harmony. He stressed that dialogue is a powerful tool for addressing disagreements and finding solutions. Research Associate from AWAM Ahmad Ali stressed upon significance of education in fostering peace. He said freedom of speech should be protected, and curricula must be revised to reflect the evolving needs of society. Dr Ghulam Mustafa from GCUF focused on humanity as essential element of peacebuilding. He urged respect for religious beliefs and called for abolishing discrimination in all forms. He emphasized that academia has a pivotal role in cultivating values of peace, acceptance and unity. Dr Muhammad Atif said as the world is grappling with growing intolerance and conflicts, it is need of the hour to have tolerance for acceptance of diversity and ideas from others so that the society can transform into a better place to live in.