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KARACHI, Dec 24 (APP): Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET) recently organized an insightful lecture on “Why China – Importance of Sinology,” delivered by Syed Hasan Javed, the former Director of the Chinese Studies Centre at NUST, Islamabad. Javed, who has an extensive diplomatic background, having served as Ambassador to Germany, Singapore, and Mauritius, emphasized the significance of understanding China in today’s global landscape.
Welcoming the guest speaker, Chancellor Muhammad Akbar Ali Khan of Sir Syed University underscored China as an exemplary model of progress in industrial production, technology, and infrastructure. Chinese companies are currently among the largest job creators globally. He was of view that China’s economy has risen to become the second largest in the world, attributing this success to effective government policies, the adoption of modern technology, and active participation in global trade. He also mentioned that Sir Syed University is an ideological university, with Sir Syed Ahmed Khan being a strong proponent of technological advancement. He asserted that technology is crucial for opening new pathways to a brighter future for any nation.
Renowned diplomat, Syed Javed Hasan highlighted the importance of soft power, stating, “Knowledge is the source of all power. Seek knowledge even if you have to go as far as China.” He urged the audience to invest in education, describing it as the best investment for the future. He pointed out that understanding Chinese soft power is essential for growth in the present era, as it significantly influences daily human lives, corporate success, and effective governance.
Javed further elaborated on the historical context, stating, “China has a 5,000-year-old history of cultural and ethical values. Rulers are like a boat, and people are like water; the water can carry the boat or sink it.” He underscored the necessity of discipline in shaping society and the role of kindness in fostering connections among people.
The Chancellor of SSUET, Muhammad Akbar Ali Khan, echoed these sentiments, challenging attendees to consider the impact they can make on society. He remarked, “Sir Syed University is an ideological university, and Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was a great proponent of technology that opens your future.” He emphasized the need for mutual cultural awareness and the importance of innovation, noting that Chinese companies have created the largest number of jobs globally.
The Vice Chancellor of SSUET, Prof. Dr. Afzal Haq, also spoke at the event, stressing the need to instill the concept of soft power in the university’s youth. “We should go forward,” he urged, highlighting the potential for entrepreneurship and innovation as pathways to success.
The lecture was well-attended by notable figures, including Registrar Cdre. (r) Syed Sarfraz Ali, Dean Prof. Dr. Mir Shabbar Ali, Prof. Dr. Abrar ul Haq, Dr. Kashif Shaikh, Dr. Muhammad Naseem, Dr. Muzammil, Dr. Tahir ul Qadri, Dr. Fahad Farooqui, Architect Fazal Noor, and several faculty members, all of whom engaged in discussions about the future of education and the importance of fostering relationships with China.