Islamabad, The Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training, Mr. Madad Ali Sindhi, met with H.E. Dr. Salih bin Abdullah al Humaid, Imam e Khatib at Masjid al Haram, today in Islamabad. The meeting underscored the deep cultural, religious, and historical ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the significant role of Saudi Arabia in addressing global issues faced by the Muslim community.

According to Press Information Department, Mr. Sindhi expressed profound respect for Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the country’s importance to the people of Pakistan, akin to a second home due to the presence of Makkah and Madina. The Minister highlighted his focus on the teachings of Islam, especially Seerat e Nabi (PBUH), and the establishment of a special research center in collaboration with Saudi and Pakistani universities. This center will concentrate on studying the Seerat of Nabi, with a particular focus on politics, social reform, and law.

The Minister also spoke about his priorities since taking office, which include enhancing the quality of education, reducing the number of out-of-school children, and research on Seerat Nabi (PBUH). He noted the underrepresentation of the political aspects of Seerat e Nabi in existing studies. He praised the efforts of Dr. Hathal Homoud Alotaibi in upgrading systems at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) and the continuous improvement in the university’s educational standards under Alotaibi’s leadership.

Additionally, Mr. Sindhi mentioned the registration of 30,000 Madrassas in Pakistan, now offering religious, scientific, and conventional education. He emphasized the need for training religious leaders in Madrassas, suggesting that Saudi Arabia could assist in this endeavor. The Minister also highlighted the plight of Muslims in Gaza, calling for a unified front to support them in times of hardship.

H.E. Dr. Salih bin Abdullah al Humaid, in response, suggested collaboration in areas like medicine, cybersecurity, climate change, engineering, artificial intelligence, distance learning, and renewable energy. He commended the Education Minister’s efforts in strengthening ties between the two countries and his dedication to reforming Pakistan’s public education sector. His Excellency shared his personal connection with Pakistan, noting that his Quran teacher was Pakistani and expressing a sense of belonging in the country.