Government College University, Lahore, on Thursday held a student-faculty discourse to mark the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism, observed in line with a resolution of the United Nations General Assembly.

The speakers emphasised that timely guidance for youth, constructive activities, tolerance and mutual respect can help prevent extremist tendencies.

The session also discussed preventive approaches adopted at the national and provincial levels, including the Government of Pakistan’s National Policy on Preventing Violent Extremism 2024 and the revised National Action Plan 2021, participants said.

The discussion was moderated by law student Hassan Sheharyar. The panel included chairperson, Department of Psychology, Prof Dr Syeda Salma Hassan; chairperson, Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Prof Dr Farooq Haider; and panelist Fahad Mehmood Sokhta. Political Science student Fatima Ismail and BS English Literature student Huzaifa Zeeshan also spoke during the session.

Chairperson, Department of Psychology, Prof Dr Syeda Salma Hassan spoke about psychological vulnerabilities that can lead individuals towards extremist ideologies, stressing the need for early interventions. Chairperson, Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Prof Dr Farooq Haider highlighted Islamic teachings on peace, mercy and justice, urging students to counter distorted narratives through informed engagement.

BS English Literature student Huzaifa Zeeshan discussed the role of literature in fostering empathy, while Political Science student Fatima Ismail examined the political dimensions of violent extremism and the challenges institutions face in managing conflict. Panelist Fahad Mehmood Sokhta said violence may never be fully eradicated, but it requires regulated mechanisms for effective channelisation and control.

Concluding the session, chairperson, Department of Psychology, Prof Dr Syeda Salma Hassan said such discourses are important for shaping youth perspectives and thanked the panellists and students for their contributions.