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The Department of Islamic Studies, University of Sargodha, organized an international conference titled “Natural Resources, Water, Plants and Environmental Protection in the Islamic and Contemporary Context.” 

Scholars, religious leaders, and researchers from the United States, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and across Pakistan participated in the conference, during which more than 111 research papers were presented.

Former Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology, Prof. Dr. Qibla Ayaz, Vice Chancellor University of Sargodha Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas, and Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Masood Sarwar Awan were present on the occasion.

Addressing the conference, Prof. Dr. Qibla Ayaz emphasized that conservation, environmental protection, and ecology are deeply connected to faith and must be integrated with religious consciousness. He highlighted that the Holy Quran clearly emphasizes the value of water, while the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) strictly discourage wastage of water, even when it is abundantly available. He further shared that Islamic teachings promote plantation, preservation of ecosystems, and prohibit unnecessary hunting for recreation to maintain ecological balance. He also noted that even in times of war, Islam forbids destruction of crops and trees.

Prof. Dr. Qibla Ayaz warned of an impending water crisis due to misuse of resources, which could lead to severe shortages and future water-driven migration. He urged the youth and industrial sector to take practical steps for sustainable resource management.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qaisar Abbas stated that the University of Sargodha has achieved remarkable progress in research and innovation, leading the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan to place it in the X-category based on research productivity, with a 119 percent increase. 

The Vice Chabce also announced upcoming initiatives including a Sino-Pak Hospital, an International Boarding School, a campus in China, and an International Lithium Battery Research Center.

Chairman Department of Islamic Studies Prof. Dr. Feroz-ud-Din Shah highlighted that environmental protection is a collective responsibility under Islamic teachings. This International Conference was part of second annual Research Arena 2025.