Abdullah Hussain Haroon delivers lecture at SMIU
Sindh Madressatul Islam University organized a lecture by Mr. Abdullah Hussain Haroon, Pakistan’s former representative to the United Nations and former Speaker of the Sindh Assembly, on Monday, November 11, 2024. The lecture was part of SMIU’s “Popular Lecture Series – My Experiences and Encounters” and took place at the Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto Auditorium.
During his discussion with Dr. Jamshed Adil Halepoto, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Mr. Abdullah Hussain Haroon spoke about his early education in Karachi, his family’s contributions to education, social work, politics, diplomacy, and philanthropy, as well as his professional career at both national and international levels. He also discussed education-related issues, environmental concerns, and the transformation of Karachi over time.
He highlighted the historic significance of Sindh Madressatul Islam, where his grandfather, Sir Abdullah Haroon, and other distinguished personalities received their early education. He acknowledged the contributions of Sir Abdullah Haroon and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in the creation of Pakistan and noted that his grandfather, alongside Aga Khan, had provided financial support to Aligarh University during its financial crisis.
Paying tribute to SMI’s founder, Khan Bahadur Hassanally Effendi, and its teachers, he emphasized the crucial role of education in national development.
Discussing his family’s role in parliamentary politics, he stated that his family had actively participated in shaping legislative reforms. He mentioned that during the tenure of Yousuf Haroon as Chief Minister of Sindh in 1950, the Sindh Assembly passed the Tenancy Act, granting farmers equal rights to agricultural produce.
Reflecting on Karachi’s history and environmental challenges, he noted that while the city boasts historic colonial-era buildings, including those of Sindh Madressatul Islam, it now faces serious environmental concerns due to rapid population growth.
He warned that many residents of Karachi suffer from diseases caused by environmental pollution, with wind, water, and food contamination being major issues. He also pointed out that the city’s waste has been polluting the sea for over a century. He stressed the need for youth awareness regarding environmental problems and urged relevant authorities to take effective measures.
Mr. Abdullah Hussain Haroon also expressed the view that many great writers, despite not holding formal degrees, contributed remarkable works due to their deep thinking. He suggested that universities establish debating halls where students can engage in discussions on original ideas and concepts.
He also fondly remembered his late friend, Nisar Ali Effendi, the grandson of Hassanally Effendi, describing him as a highly honorable person. Speaking about the role of the United Nations, the former representative of Pakistan to the UN emphasized its significance as a global institution. He noted that the UN serves as a crucial platform where representatives from any country can seek conflict resolution or assistance. While acknowledging that the UN has not always met the high expectations placed upon it, he asserted that there is no alternative institution that could replace its role as an international forum.
Earlier, in his introductory speech, Vice Chancellor of SMIU, Dr. Mujeeb Sahrai, welcomed the guest and highlighted Sir Abdullah Haroon’s deep connection with his alma mater, Sindh Madressatul Islam. He stated that Sir Abdullah Haroon actively supported the institution and its students. He further acknowledged the contributions of the Haroon family to Pakistan’s political and social landscape, adding that Mr. Abdullah Hussain Haroon has played a significant role in various charitable and social causes. Through the Haroon Charitable Foundation and other initiatives, he has supported education, healthcare, and community development projects across Pakistan.
Dr. Mujeeb Sahrai expressed his gratitude to Mr. Abdullah Hussain Haroon for taking the time to share his experiences and insights with the students of SMIU.
The session was moderated by Dr. Jamshed Adil Halepoto, while Ms. Zonaira Jalali conducted the proceedings. In conclusion, Dr. Mujeeb Sahrai presented a shield to the guest as a token of appreciation. The event was attended by deans, chairpersons, faculty members, heads of administrative departments, and a large number of students.