ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday highlighted the importance of Allama Muhammad Iqbal's teachings, calling for an education system that not only prepares youth for livelihoods but also nurtures intellect and character.

In his message on Iqbal Day, observed annually on November 9, the prime minister paid tribute to the Poet of the East, describing him as a thinker of Islam and a visionary architect of Pakistan. He said Iqbal illuminated hope during the darkness of slavery and emphasized self-reliance for the nation.

Shehbaz Sharif stressed that faith, knowledge, and action remain the pillars of a strong nation. "The ideological formation of our education in the light of Iqbal's thought is our need, as on it our bright and strong future depends," he said.

The prime minister also recalled Iqbal's vision of Muslim unity and global peace, urging society to embrace brotherhood, love, and justice over sectarianism and hatred. He added that Iqbal's ideas should guide national policy, educational priorities, and personal and collective conduct.

He concluded by urging citizens to make Iqbal's philosophy central to their actions so Pakistan can truly reflect the ideals of knowledge, tolerance, and justice envisioned by the national poet.