ISLAMABAD, DEC 28: /DNA/ – As Pakistan nears its centennial year of independence, engaging in thoughtful discussions to envision a prosperous future becomes imperative. In this regard the Centre for Aerospace & Security Studies (CASS), Islamabad in collaboration with Air University organized a guest lecture under its Catalyst Conversation Series on ‘Steering through Storms: Quaid-i-Azam’s Leadership in the Time of Crisis’, which aimed to facilitate such discourse. Moderated by CASS Research Assistant Shaheer Ahmad, the discussion explored Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s leadership style and decision-making during turbulent times, drawing lessons for modern governance. The keynote was guided by insights of Prof. Dr Dushka H. Saiyid, Editor Youlin Magazine & Former Chairperson, Department of History, Quaid-i-Azam University.

In her Keynote Address, Prof. Dr Dushka H. Saiyid discussed the enduring legacy of Quaid-i-Azam focusing on his leadership qualities and his advocacy for women’s empowerment. The speaker reflected on Jinnah’s visionary approach to governance and his unwavering commitment to constitutional principles. Highlighting Jinnah’s legislative achievements, the speaker noted his instrumental role in championing women’s rights, including his support for inheritance laws through the Shariat Bill of 1937, which secured fixed property shares for women. Jinnah’s leadership in mobilising women for political and social causes was underscored, as was his belief in the vital role of women in nation-building. Prof. Dr Dushka H. Saiyid’s address served as a powerful reminder of Jinnah’s foresight and inclusivity, urging today’s leaders to draw inspiration from his example in promoting equity and progressive governance.

In his Concluding Remarks, Air Marshal Farooq Habib (Retd), Senior Director at CASS, underscored the significance of Quaid-i-Azam’s vision in shaping Pakistan’s identity and future. He urged the young generation to honour Jinnah’s legacy as a guiding principle for progress and unity. ‘Without Quaid’s vision, the Muslims of the subcontinent would have had no identity. It is crucial for us to reconnect with this legacy to shape a prosperous future,’ said Air Marshal Habib. He emphasised Jinnah’s dream of an inclusive state with an impartial government, where all citizens could live freely and with dignity.

Delivering his Vote of Thanks, President of CASS, Islamabad, Air Marshal Javaid Ahmed (Retd), thanked Prof. Dr Dushka H. Saiyid for her thought-provoking address and expressed gratitude to the administration of Air University for their cooperation in organising the Catalyst Conversation at their institution. The lecture was followed by an interactive Question and Answer session with students and faculty of the university.