University of Central Punjab hosted TEDx 2025 on April 21, 2025 to honor Late Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s death anniversary. The theme, “The Work of Iqbal for Pakistan,” focused on how his ideas still shape our country, especially through the minds and actions of today’s youth.
It featured following speakers:
1. Raza Naqvi – Future of Entrepreneurs in Pakistan
Naqvi spoke about the struggles he faced, the moments when he wanted to give up, and how he stayed strong. He encouraged audience to take risks, believe in their ideas, and use Iqbal’s philosophy of “selfhood” (khudi) to build something meaningful.
2. Yasir Niaz – Technology as a Change Agent
Yasir Niaz, CTO, Punjab Safe Cities Authority, gave real-life examples of how digital systems are used to solve problems like traffic and crime.
3. Ismaeel Qasim – Marginalized Community
A journalist and analyst with years of experience, Qasim stressed the importance of giving voice to marginalized community. He urged media to become more responsible and inclusive, and encouraged young people to use their platforms to highlight the truth.
4. Senator Walid Iqbal – Rise of Women in Leadership
Senator Walid Iqbal, grandson of Allama Iqbal, gave a thoughtful speech on how far women have come in leadership roles and how far we still need to go. He shared inspiring stories, talked about recent laws, and appreciated the role educational institutions like UCP are playing in empowering women to lead.
5. Ramesh Singh – Marginalized Community
Ramesh Singh Arora, the first Sikh provincial minister of Punjab, spoke about giving equal rights and opportunities to minorities in Pakistan. He discussed how we can build a more inclusive society where everyone feels seen and valued. He even suggested working together with UCP students for projects that support this mission.
6. Dr. Hina Sikandar – Rise of Women in Leadership
Dr. Hina Sikandar amazed the audience with her story of balancing motherhood, education, and civil service. She spoke about facing challenges with courage and encouraged young women to never give up on their dreams.
7. Waqar Naeem – Technology as a Change Agent
Waqar Naeem, an expert with over 25 years in the tech world, talked how Pakistan can grow faster by using digital tools in government and public service.
10. Haider Aziz – Iqbaliat and the Future of Entrepreneurs in Pakistan
Aziz linked Iqbal’s teachings directly to the entrepreneurial mindset. He encouraged students to dream big, work hard, and think independently. He reminded everyone that Iqbal wanted the youth of Pakistan to be leaders and builders of the future.
