Hawzah News Agency- Affiliated with the Islamic Propagation Office of the Qom Seminary, Baqir al-Olum University has in recent years adopted an active and outward-looking approach to expanding transnational scholarly cooperation. Professor Ishaq’s visit took place within this framework and included a series of scientific, cultural, and dialogue-oriented meetings with university professors, students, and senior administrators. Throughout these sessions, he addressed key themes such as Islamic liberation theology, justice, decolonization, interfaith dialogue, and the social interpretation of the Holy Qur’an.
Joint Scientific Meeting with International Scholars and Students
The visit began with a joint scientific session attended by prominent Islamic thinkers, including Hamid Parsania, Shoja Ali Mirza, and Seyyed Hadi Sajidi, alongside a group of American and Canadian students. Held in an atmosphere of open and academic dialogue, the meeting provided a platform for the exchange of views on Islamic intellectual traditions and contemporary approaches to Qur’anic social interpretation. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions and posed critical questions related to the role of religion in addressing modern social challenges.
Meeting with University Leadership on International Academic Cooperation
Professor Ishaq subsequently met with Hojatoleslam Rafiei Alavi, President of Baqir al-Olum University, and Seyyed Hadi Sajidi, Vice President for International Affairs. The discussions focused on expanding scientific cooperation in Islamic studies and the humanities, as well as strengthening sustainable academic networks between Iranian and international institutions. University officials emphasized the importance of such engagements in enhancing the global presence of Qom Seminary’s scholarly capacities.
Faculty Session on Justice, Decolonization, and Contemporary Humanities
In a dedicated meeting with the university’s faculty members, Professor Ishaq elaborated on his perspectives regarding Islamic studies, social justice, decolonization, and the relationship between religion and contemporary humanities. Faculty members critically examined these viewpoints in specialized discussions marked by scholarly rigor and constructive exchange, highlighting the relevance of Islamic thought in responding to global intellectual and ethical debates.
Palestine Studies Circle: Theology of Resistance and Justice
Another major segment of the visit was Professor Ishaq’s participation in a student-organized session of the Palestine Studies Circle, held under the title “Palestine: Liberation Theology and the Logic of Resistance.” Drawing on Islamic liberation theology and comparative experiences of resistance to apartheid, he discussed justice, resistance, and interreligious dialogue in the context of Palestine. The session was widely welcomed by students and generated multilayered and critical discussions on the Palestinian cause and its broader ethical and theological dimensions.
Video Dialogue on Contemporary Islamic Challenges
Professor Ishaq also took part in a video discussion at the “Lifestyle” Studio of Baqir al-Olum University, where he addressed liberation theology, the social reading of the Qur’an, and contemporary challenges facing the Islamic world. The program is scheduled to be released soon through media outlets affiliated with the university.
Strengthening Scientific Diplomacy and International Standing
Observers view Professor Farid Ishaq’s presence at Baqir al-Olum University as a meaningful step toward strengthening scientific diplomacy, showcasing the academic potential of the Qom Seminary, and advancing the university’s vision of leadership in the humanities. This approach reflects the institution’s strategic motto, “Wisdom for Life,” and underscores its commitment to fostering knowledge-based dialogue at the international level.
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