Saira Rashad, our Salamti Fellow carried out Community Action Project titled as “Hum Sub – United in Difference”. It was conducted at Lincoln Corner, University of Sargodha on 12 September, 2019 with the assistance of Pakistan-US Alumni Network. As a matter of fact, diversity is very essential component for the existence of peace. Diversity aims in the recognition of our individual differences at various instances; let us say for example our social status. Each and every individual in a nation state contributes towards peace. It is highly important to have willingness towards acceptance of diversity, it eventually lead to peace and harmony. Considering the factor that we lack tolerance and acceptance that create extremist values in our societies, Saira engaged the students to understand its importance through focused group discussion (FGD) and dialogues. More than 20 participants attended the session included youth, students and activists. They actively participated in discussion and question answers session.

The FGD included open discussions, dialogues and question answer series. The experts including Mr. Sabookh Syed – Social Media Activist, Blogger and Journalist, Dr. Ishtiaq Chaudhary – Vice Chancellor, University of Sargodha, Dr. Fazal Ur Rehman – Director Chinese institute of Studies (UOS) were taken on board who shared their opinions and vision regarding the subject. During the discussion, Vice-Chancellor stated that instead of being idealistic, we need to explore more avenues and accept our vulnerabilities. He further shared that we need to work on our values and morals in order to live in harmony and peace despite all the differences. All the participants agreed that diversity brings colour and excitement so we should inculcate a factor of tolerance as it plays a vital role in establishing peace and love in all the units of society. Afterwards, Mr. Sabookh asked everyone around to share any personal incident from their lives that showcased acceptance or even rejection of diversity. This activity brought many interesting stories which explored different experiences and perspectives. At the end of the session, every participant made a pledge to continue this discussion and uphold the principle of unity in diversity. In conclusion, peace proceeds from our deeper understanding of our diversity which is of great importance for mutual co-existence.

The radio program was recorded live after conclusion of the main event. It went live from 6 to 7 transmission under the University of Sargodha’s education initiative of Trinjan on Varsity 98.2 FM. Mr. Sabookh Syed (media activist, blogger and a journalist) and Tahir Umar were there as guests with Saira Rashad. They discussed the importance of diversity and its role in promoting inclusivity and acceptance in our communities. They had questions and answers session where they shared their inputs and opinions regarding diversity and living together with harmony.