KARACHI, Nov 9: The birth anniversary of Dr Allama Mohammad Iqbal was celebrated in the city on Wednesday with simplicity in view of the recent earthquake tragedy. A programme, organized by the Firdous Ittehad, started with Qurankhwani and a pledge was made at it to strive for turning the Allama’s dream of solidarity, unity and prosperity of the nation into a reality.

Speaking at the programme, chairperson of the Pakistan Himayat Tehreek Dr Sarwar Sultana and other speakers paid rich tributes to the national poet and highlighted various aspects of his life and poetry. Schoolchildren presented tableaux to mark the day.

Iqbal Day was celebrated at the Sir Adamjee Institute also.

The director of the Iqbal Academy Lahore, Sohail Umer, was the chief guest and Prof Dr Zafar Iqbal of the Urdu department, University of Karachi, was the guest of honour.

The function was attended by teachers, students and their parent, says a release here.

Principal SAI, Cdr. (Retd) Najeeb Anjum in his welcome address, spoke of Iqbal’s thoughts on education and presented suggestions to improve the education system in the country in the light of Iqbal’s message.

He also deliberated upon how the students could play an effective role in the nation building by bringing about positive changes.

Dr Zafar Iqbal said Iqbal’s poetic message called for collective consciousness of the nation.

Sohail Umer in his key note address emphasized that Allama Iqbal’s message was eternal and beyond the geographical boundaries.

The students presented lively, entertaining and enlightening programmes, including a poster competition encompassing various facets of Iqbal’s personality. Quiz competition on Iqbal was also held.

Later, the winners were given prizes. — APP