Islamabad – Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani emphasized that education is not a privilege but a fundamental right. While addressing the concluding session of the International Conference on Girls’ Education in Muslim Communities held in Islamabad.
He called on Muslim communities and the international community to renew their commitment to empowering girls through education, underscoring the teachings of Islam and the vision of Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who strongly advocated for gender equality and the importance of education for all.
The conference brought together global leaders, including His Excellency Hissein Brahim Taha, Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), His Excellency Mr. Mohammad bin Abdul Karim Al-Isa, Secretary General of the Muslim World League, and distinguished dignitaries such as Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai and former Prime Minister of Norway Kjell Magne Bondevik, to discuss the challenges and opportunities for girls’ education in Muslim communities.
“The future of any society lies in the education of its youth, particularly girls. We cannot build a prosperous future if we leave half of our population behind,” Chairman Senate stated. He also paid tribute to the global efforts of Malala Yousafzai, whose advocacy has inspired millions, and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring that every girl, regardless of background, has access to quality education.
Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani also highlighted the contributions of Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and First Women Prime Minister of the Muslim World Benazir Bhutto for women’s education and their endeavors for bringing gender equality, social empowerment, and political participation for women in Pakistan.
Chairman Senate stated that history reminds us that educated Muslim women have played a major role in shaping societies. Their inspiring stories, charismatic personalities, and determination to contribute to the development of their environment make them beacons that guide young women and men today, he added. He highlighted that Fatima al-Fihri founded the world’s first university, while Razia Sultana ruled with wisdom and strength. They proved that when given the chance, women lead, innovate, and transform the world.
Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani emphasized that literacy, especially among women, is a cornerstone of a sustainable and prosperous society. He stated that educating girls not only transforms individual lives but also uplifts entire communities by improving health outcomes and fostering economic empowerment, building resilience, promoting stability, and strengthening social cohesion.
Chairman Senate called for advancing the cause of girls’ education, emphasizing that we must embrace a comprehensive approach that combines collaborative action, resource development, and community engagement.
Chairman Senate strongly urged distinguished scholars and policymakers to translate the invaluable insights and lessons of this conference into tangible, impactful strategies that will inspire change.
The conference concluded with the adoption of the ‘Islamabad Declaration,’ a collaborative framework aimed at addressing key challenges in girls’ education. The declaration calls for gender-sensitive policies, resource mobilization, and strengthened partnerships with international organizations to enhance the educational opportunities for girls across Muslim communities.
Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani urged governments, civil society, and international partners to work together to create an environment where girls are encouraged, supported, and empowered to pursue their education.
