Bradford, (Zahid Mirza) __ As part of the United Nations’ global campaign, Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the University of Bradford has launched a series of awareness activities aimed at combating violence against women and promoting gender equality. In this connection, the University’s Social Justice Society organized a significant awareness session addressing Islamophobia and women’s rights, drawing a large audience of students and faculty members.

Renowned religious scholar Hafiz Muhammad Azad served as the keynote speaker. In his address, he emphasized that Islam is a religion founded on peace, compassion and humanity, firmly denouncing violence, oppression and injustice in all forms. He underscored that Islam granted women dignity, respect and comprehensive rights long before many other social systems—whether as daughters, mothers, sisters or wives. Any form of abuse or mistreatment, he stressed, contradicts the fundamental teachings of Islam.

Speaking on Islamophobia, Hafiz Muhammad Azad highlighted the importance of patience, mutual understanding, unity, tolerance and justice. These values, he said, are essential in addressing misconceptions and countering prejudice effectively.

University administration and student organizers reaffirmed that the purpose of the 16-day campaign is to raise awareness about eliminating violence against women and girls, while also encouraging communities to understand Islam’s true message of peace and harmony, free from misinterpretations or bias.

The session concluded with a strong call for continued efforts to promote interfaith harmony, women’s safety and social inclusion. Participants noted that such initiatives play a vital role in fostering a more informed, tolerant and equitable society.