The Department of Islamic Studies, University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore, organized a one-day seminar on “Positive and Negative Impacts of Social Media in the Light of Seerat-un-Nabi ﷺ”. The seminar aimed to raise awareness among students about the constructive use of social media and to provide guidance for its effective utilization. The event also included a welcome ceremony for the newly enrolled BS, MS, and PhD students.

Chairman, Dr. Hafiz Zahid Latif, delivered the welcome address, while Associate Professor and University Spokesperson, Dr. Tanveer Qasim, delivered the keynote speech.

In his address, Dr. Tanveer Qasim emphasized that “Social media is a powerful tool that can bring positive change in society, but its misuse can lead to serious problems.” He urged the youth to use social media as an effective platform for accessing information, enhancing educational opportunities, and promoting business. Highlighting the challenges of fake news, hate speech, and wastage of time, he stressed the need for awareness and training. “Fact-checking, truthfulness, and journalistic responsibility are vital to bringing about positive change in society,” he added.

Dr. Qasim further elaborated that internet services, including platforms such as Google, YouTube, Gmail, Skype, and various social media applications like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp, TikTok, and YouTube, have transformed the world into a global village. “Social media is one of the fastest and most effective means of communication, transmitting messages across the globe within seconds,” he said.

Referring to the launch of the BS Islamic Studies with Specialization in Computer Technology Program at UET, Dr. Qasim explained that the initiative was designed to equip students with both religious and technological knowledge, enabling them to effectively use modern tools for positive engagement.

He also highlighted that the teachings of the Holy Prophet ﷺ provide moral guidance on character building, tolerance, equality, honesty, and service to humanity. “By applying the principles of Seerat-un-Nabi ﷺ, social media can be used to promote ethical values and foster positive interactions,” Dr. Qasim noted.

At the conclusion of the seminar, participants pledged to use social media responsibly and contribute towards the progress of society. The seminar was attended by a large number of faculty members and students, including Dr. Hafiz Shahbaz, Dr. Hafiz Qudratullah, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, and Syed Nadeem Shah.