- Celebrating Pakistan’s freedom through heartfelt performances, community contributions, and cultural exhibitions
Interview with Dr. Asiya Saif Alvi — a dynamic political analyst
Profile:
Dr. Asiya Saif Alvi is a dynamic young political analyst from Lahore. After finishing her school and college education, she went to Islamabad for Masters from Quaid-e-Azam University. After doing her Masters, she joined a local college in Lahore for teaching. Simultaneously, she got admission to Government College Lahore for her MPhil in the political science department. Meanwhile, she quit her job at college and started working at the Virtual University of Pakistan in 2009.
After doing her MPhil, she got enrolled in the PhD programme at the University of Punjab. While doing her Ph.D., she worked as a Lecturer in the UET Taxila for one year in 2012 and then moved to Lahore College of Women University. After six months, she was selected as an assistant professor in the Department of Politics and IR at the University of Sargodha in 2013. At the University of Sargodha, she has attended more than two dozen national and international conferences.
The University of Sargodha, where she is serving as head of the department at present, sent her to China in 2017 for a teaching diploma. She has written almost four dozen research articles in national and internationally renowned journals. She has produced numerous MPhils, six PhDs, three are waiting for their public defence and four are under supervision.
PAGE: How and where do you celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day?
Dr. Asiya Saif Alvi: I celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day with immense pride and joy. Usually, I start the day by attending a flag-hoisting ceremony at my university. The day is filled with activities that highlight our rich culture and history. I also make it a point to spend time with family, friends, colleagues and students reminiscing about the struggles and achievements that led to our independence by arranging seminars, talks and programs on radio. It’s a day of reflection and gratitude, and I love to share these sentiments with those around me.
PAGE: What questions do your students ask you about Pakistan and its history?
Dr. Asiya Saif Alvi: My students often ask thought-provoking questions about Pakistan’s journey to independence, the sacrifices made by our forefathers, and the significance of various historical events. They are curious about the challenges faced by the country post-independence and how we have evolved as a nation.
Questions about the role of women in Pakistan’s history, the contributions of lesser-known heroes, and the vision of our leaders are also common. These discussions often lead to a deeper understanding of our identity and values as Pakistanis.
PAGE: How patriotic are Pakistani kids and how do they celebrate the Independence Day of Pakistan?
Dr. Asiya Saif Alvi: Pakistani kids are incredibly patriotic. Their love for the country is evident in the way they eagerly participate in Independence Day celebrations. From dressing in green and white to decorating their homes and schools, their enthusiasm is contagious. They take part in school programmes, perform skits, recite patriotic songs, and engage in various activities that instill a sense of pride in being Pakistani. This patriotism isn’t just limited to one day; it’s a part of their daily lives as they show respect for the country and its values.
PAGE: How do the students intend to celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day this year?
Dr. Asiya Saif Alvi: This year, my students have planned a series of activities to celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day. They are organising a special assembly where they will perform national songs, share speeches about the significance of independence, and honour the sacrifices made by our ancestors. Additionally, they have planned community service activities to give back to society through plantation, reflecting the true spirit of patriotism. The students are also excited to participate in a cultural fair that showcases the diverse traditions of Pakistan, celebrating the unity in our diversity.