LAHORE: (Thursday, December 04, 2025): Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali has said that debates are essential for resolving issues, and books help enhance knowledge and confidence. He was addressing the launching ceremony of two books titled: “Language, Gender, and Power” and “Reimagining Education in Pakistan” authored by former Vice Chancellor of Allama Iqbal Open University and educationist Prof Dr Shahid Siddiqui, held at the auditorium of PU Institute of Energy & Environmental Engineering here on Thursday.

On the occasion, Prof Dr Shahid Siddiqui, Dr Tayyaba Tamim from LUMS, Director Institute of Education & Research Dr Abdul Qayyum Chaudhry, Director Institute of Social & Cultural Studies Dr Farhan Naveed Yousaf, Chairperson Department of Gender Studies Dr Ra’ana Malik, Secretary Academic Staff Association Dr Muhammad Islam, researchers, educationists, faculty members and a large number of students participated. In his address, PU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Ali advised students that since the world is changing rapidly, those who wish to drive this change must adopt reading habits. He said that in the next five years, agriculture, communication, media and teaching methods will undergo significant transformation and therefore, students should study not just for degrees but for learning. He said that students learn 30% inside classrooms and 70% outside the classroom, which is why such activities should continue. He added that Dr Siddiqui is a sociable, capable and hardworking individual from whom one always learns. He said the author has shed detailed light on various aspects of education, politics and gender in his writings. Dr Shahid Siddiqui said that we need to produce graduates who are aware of societal issues and challenges. He said it is necessary to promote students’ creative abilities and critical thinking. He added that these books are the essence of his personal practical experiences and can be easily understood by researchers, policymakers, students and the general public. He said both books are interdisciplinary and each chapter highlights a particular issue. He thanked the Vice Chancellor Dr Muhammad Ali and his team for organizing the ceremony. Dr Tayyaba Tamim said the author has highlighted the importance of education in an admirable way, while the book titles are also eye-catching. She said that education plays a vital role in development across all fields of life. She added that Dr Shahid has explained teacher–student relationships in simple language, opening new avenues of thought for readers. Dr Abdul Qayyum Chaudhry said that Dr Shahid Siddiqui has beautifully presented his perspective to readers regarding improvement in rankings and out-of-school children. Dr Farhan Naveed Yousaf congratulated the author on his excellent publications and called his writing a valuable addition to the academic world.