Seminar Report - Religion, Extremism, and the Digital Age

Wisdom Islamic Studies and Education (WISE Institute, USA), in collaboration with Darul Huda Islamic University, Anti-corruption Academy, and Idea of India Foundation, orchestrated a groundbreaking two-day International Online Seminar on "Religion, Extremism, and the Digital Age."

Seminar Report

Religion, Extremism, and the Digital Age: Navigating Challenges and Solutions

Date: December 12-13, 2023

Hosted by: Wisdom Islamic Studies and Education (WISE Institute, USA), in collaboration with Darul Huda Islamic University, Anti-corruption Academy, and Idea of India Foundation.

Introduction: Wisdom Islamic Studies and Education (WISE Institute, USA), in collaboration with Darul Huda Islamic University, Anti-corruption Academy, and Idea of India Foundation, orchestrated a groundbreaking two-day International Online Seminar on "Religion, Extremism, and the Digital Age." This collaborative effort brought together experts, scholars, and thought leaders to delve into the intricate challenges posed by extremism within the religious context and the transformative influence of the digital age. The event, held on December 12-13, 2023, served as a platform to explore solutions and cultivate collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

 

Day 1: Inaugural Session - "Setting the Stage" (Duration: 2 hours)

Session Overview: The inaugural session, skilfully moderated by Zeynep Çakmak, served as a crucial introduction, setting the stage for the subsequent discussions. Dr. Ali Unsal, the Deputy Director of the Wisdom Islamic Studies and Education (WISE) Institute, USA, assumed the pivotal role of delivering the opening address. Dr. Unsal's engaging and warm welcome set the tone for the entire seminar, creating an atmosphere of inclusivity and anticipation among the participants.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Unsal extended a heartfelt welcome to the diverse assembly of participants, acknowledging the significance of their collective presence in addressing the pressing issues at the intersection of religion, extremism, and the digital age. Dr. Unsal's opening address provided a comprehensive overview of the seminar's objectives, navigating through the intricate landscape of the chosen themes. By articulating the broader purpose of the seminar, he offered participants a roadmap, enabling them to grasp the significance of their collective endeavor and encouraging a unified exploration of potential solutions.

Speakers and Keynote Addresses:

Dr. Mohammad Bhauddin (Vice Chancellor, Darul Huda Islamic University): Dr. Bhauddin's contribution to the seminar was marked by a profound emphasis on the pivotal role of Islamic education. Addressing the audience as the Vice Chancellor of Darul Huda Islamic University, he passionately advocated for an integrated approach. Dr. Bhauddin proposed a holistic strategy that blends traditional teachings with modern understanding to effectively counter radicalization. His insights delved into the transformative potential of education as a means to nurture an informed and balanced perspective within the Islamic framework.

Mr. Zufar Ahmad Farooqui (Chairman, Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board): Mr. Farooqui, the Chairman of Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board, brought a contemporary perspective to the discourse by underscoring the role of social media in combating extremism. His keynote address was a call for responsible social media usage as a potent tool against radicalization. Mr. Farooqui emphasized the need for constructive engagement on digital platforms, recognizing social media's influence in shaping narratives and opinions.

Mr. S. Sathyamoorthy (Former Deputy Comptroller and Auditor General of India, CEO, Anti-Corruption Academy): As a seasoned expert and former Deputy Comptroller and Auditor General of India, Mr. Sathyamoorthy contributed a nuanced analysis to the seminar. He explored the intricate web of political sponsorship in radicalization, delving into the genesis of religion and its potential misuse in extremist activities. His address shed light on the political dimensions of radicalization, providing valuable insights into its roots and manifestations.

Dr. Zeki Saritoprak (Associate Professor, Department of Theology and Religious Studies, John Carroll University, USA): Dr. Saritoprak, an Associate Professor at John Carroll University, brought forth a scholarly perspective by providing profound insights into Islamic theology's role in countering radicalization. His address added depth to the discussions, offering a nuanced understanding of religious principles and their application in combating radicalization issues. Dr. Saritoprak's contribution contributed to the academic rigor of the seminar.

Mr. S. M. Khan (Former Press Advisor to the President of India, Vice President, India Islamic Cultural Centre): Mr. Khan, leveraging his rich experience as the Former Press Advisor to the President of India and Vice President of India Islamic Cultural Centre, addressed the role of civil society and governmental bodies in tackling extremism. His keynote highlighted the collaborative nature of the effort, emphasizing the need for a concerted approach by civil society, government, and policymakers. Mr. Khan also underscored the positive potential of social media in countering radical narratives, showcasing its role in shaping a constructive discourse.

Mr. Umar Siddiqui (President, Idea of India Foundation and President, Anti-Corruption Academy, India): Mr. Siddiqui, as the President of the Idea of India Foundation and the Anti-Corruption Academy, India, introduced a preventive approach to extremism. Proposing a comprehensive three-level strategy, he focused on child upbringing as a key preventive measure. Mr. Siddiqui underscored the importance of nurturing a resilient mindset from the home environment to educational institutions and workplaces. His insights provided a holistic perspective on addressing extremism at its roots.

Key Highlights:

Diverse Perspectives on Countering Extremism: The inaugural session showcased a rich tapestry of perspectives aimed at countering extremism. Distinguished speakers offered insights from various angles, including education, theology, social media, and political dimensions. This multifaceted approach recognized the complex nature of extremism, illustrating the importance of comprehensive strategies to address its root causes.

Emphasis on Collaborative Efforts: A resounding theme echoed by the speakers was the imperative for collaboration among diverse stakeholders. Recognizing the interconnectedness of the challenges posed by extremism, the speakers emphasized the need for joint efforts involving religious institutions, governmental bodies, and civil society. This emphasis on collaboration underscored the shared responsibility in tackling the multifaceted dimensions of extremism.

Social Media's Dual Role: The role of social media emerged as a central theme, with speakers delving into its dual nature. While acknowledging its potential for constructive dialogue, the speakers also addressed the concerning aspect of social media being a platform for the dissemination of extremist ideologies. This nuanced exploration highlighted the need for responsible social media usage and the importance of leveraging these platforms for positive engagement, countering the negative narratives that contribute to radicalization.

Islamic Theological Perspectives: Dr. Zeki Saritoprak's exploration of Islamic theological perspectives added depth to the discussions. By incorporating religious insights into countering radicalization, the seminar highlighted the importance of understanding and incorporating religious teachings as part of the broader strategy to combat extremism. This approach aimed at fostering a holistic understanding of the issues at hand.

Governmental and Civil Society Roles: Mr. S. M. Khan underscored the pivotal roles of civil society actors, government, and policymakers in addressing extremism. This recognition of the intersectionality between governance and societal initiatives reinforced the idea that comprehensive solutions require a concerted effort from various sectors, acknowledging the influence both entities exert in shaping societal narratives.

In essence, the inaugural session's key highlights painted a comprehensive picture of the challenges posed by extremism and the intricate interplay between education, theology, social media, and politics. The emphasis on collaboration and responsible social media usage emerged as critical components in navigating these challenges, setting the stage for the seminar's subsequent discussions.

 

Technical Session 1 - "Exploring Extremism and Interreligious Dialogue"

Session Overview: The Technical Session 1, titled "Exploring Extremism and Interreligious Dialogue," emerged as an intellectually enriching journey into the intricate dimensions of extremism and the transformative potential of interreligious dialogue in fostering mutual understanding and peace. The session, held on December 12, 2023, showcased a seamless unfolding of insights, driven by the moderation of the distinguished Professor Zeki Saritoprak. His expertise as an Associate Professor in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at John Carroll University played a pivotal role in steering the session towards a profound exploration of the chosen themes.

Moderator: Professor Zeki Saritoprak assumed the role of the session's moderator, bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront. As an Associate Professor renowned for his contributions in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at John Carroll University, Professor Saritoprak demonstrated adept moderation skills that set the tone for a cohesive and in-depth exploration of the topics at hand. His guidance ensured a seamless flow, allowing each speaker's insights to resonate coherently and contribute meaningfully to the overarching theme of the session.

Speakers and Themes:

Jamel R. Cayamodin:

·        Theme: Holistic and Integrated Education in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism

·        In a compelling presentation, Mr. Cayamodin illuminated the indispensable role of education in preventing and countering violent extremism. His focus extended beyond traditional educational approaches, advocating for a holistic and integrated strategy. Mr. Cayamodin emphasized the necessity of addressing root causes, fostering critical thinking, and promoting a comprehensive understanding of diverse perspectives. His insights underscored the pivotal role of education as a transformative force in mitigating the drivers of violent extremism.

          Sarah Lucman Handang:

·        Theme: Violent Extremism Among Young People and Interreligious Dialogue

·        Ms. Handang delved into the pressing issue of violent extremism among young people, offering a nuanced exploration. Her presentation highlighted the transformative potential of interreligious dialogue as a powerful tool for fostering tolerance and understanding among the youth. Ms. Handang's insights provided effective strategies for engaging young minds in constructive dialogue, promoting a sense of shared values, and countering extremist narratives through meaningful interfaith interactions.

           Bulat Akhmetkarimov:

·        Theme: Innovative Technologies for Peace

·        Mr. Akhmetkarimov embarked on a forward-looking exploration of the transformative potential of innovative technologies in the pursuit of peace. His presentation delved into the practical applications of technology, particularly its role in conflict resolution and peace-building efforts. Mr. Akhmetkarimov's insights offered a visionary perspective on leveraging technology as a force for positive change, presenting innovative solutions for countering extremism through the integration of technological advancements into peace-building initiatives.

Mohammed Abdulghani Taha:

·        Theme: Artificial Intelligence and Islamic Studies

·        Mr. Taha's presentation focused on the intersection of artificial intelligence and Islamic studies. He examined how advanced technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, could be harnessed to enhance the understanding of Islamic principles and contribute to countering extremist narratives.

Muhammed Jasim M:

·        Theme: Digital Coherence and Extremism

·        Mr. Muhammed Jasim M explored the intricacies of digital coherence and its impact on extremism. His presentation delved into the evolving landscape of digital communication and its role in both perpetuating and countering extremist ideologies.

Question and Answer Session: The session concluded with a dynamic and interactive Q&A segment, providing participants with the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers. The questions spanned a wide range of topics, from the practical application of innovative technologies to the challenges and opportunities associated with interreligious dialogue. This interactive segment added a valuable dimension to the session, fostering a collaborative atmosphere among the speakers and participants.

Conclusion: Technical Session 1 proved to be an intellectually stimulating exploration into the realms of extremism and interreligious dialogue. The diverse themes covered by the speakers showcased the intricate intersections between education, technology, and dialogue in the ongoing efforts to counter extremism. As the session concluded, participants were left with a wealth of insights and perspectives, setting the stage for further discussions in the subsequent sessions of the International Online Seminar.

 

Technical Session 2 - "Digital Challenges in Countering Extremism"

Session Overview: The second Technical Session, aptly titled "Digital Challenges in Countering Extremism," provided an insightful exploration into the complex dynamics of extremism in the digital realm. Held on December 12, 2023, this session was marked by a diverse panel of speakers, each shedding light on various aspects of the digital challenges associated with countering extremism. Mr. Margaret Johnson took the helm as the session's moderator, guiding the audience through an intellectually stimulating hour and twenty-five minutes.

Moderator: Mr. Margaret Johnson assumed the role of the session's moderator, bringing his expertise to the forefront. As the moderator, he played a crucial role in facilitating a coherent and comprehensive exploration of the digital challenges posed by extremism. His adept moderation skills ensured a seamless flow, allowing each speaker to delve into their respective themes with clarity and depth.

Speakers and Themes:

Asiya Yasmin and Muhammed Badusha:

·        Theme: Muslims' Experiences Online

·        The duo presented a compelling exploration of Muslims' experiences in the online sphere. Through their presentation, they shed light on the nuanced challenges faced by the Muslim community in digital spaces, providing valuable insights into the impact of online narratives on perceptions and sentiments.

Sabir Khan:

·        Theme: Role of Digital Platforms in Misinformation

·        Mr. Sabir Khan's presentation delved into the critical role played by digital platforms in disseminating misinformation. He addressed the challenges associated with the spread of misleading narratives online and discussed potential strategies for countering the negative impact of digital platforms in the context of extremism.

Fathima Nadha. A, Fidha Fathima P. P:

·        Theme: Digital Jihad and Terrorism

·        This dynamic duo presented a comprehensive exploration of the intricate connections between digital platforms, jihad, and terrorism. Their insights provided a deep understanding of the evolving nature of extremism in the digital space, highlighting the challenges posed by online platforms in the context of jihad and terrorism.

Muhammed Lala Shahbaz:

·        Theme: Digital Deception and Extremism

·        Mr. Shahbaz's presentation centered on the theme of digital deception and its role in fostering extremism. By examining deceptive practices online, he contributed to the audience's understanding of the mechanisms employed by extremists in the digital realm, emphasizing the need for counteractive measures.

Aisha Aijaz:

·        Theme: AI, Ethics, and Technology

·        Aisha Aijaz provided a thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of artificial intelligence, ethics, and technology in the context of countering extremism. Her presentation explored the ethical implications of using AI to combat extremist content and the broader role of technology in shaping counter-extremism strategies.

Question and Answer Session: The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers. The questions ranged from the practical applications of the discussed strategies to the ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI in countering extremism. This interactive session enriched the overall experience, providing participants with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding digital challenges in countering extremism.

Conclusion: Technical Session 2 offered a comprehensive exploration of the digital challenges associated with countering extremism. The diverse themes covered by the speakers showcased the intricate connections between online experiences, misinformation, digital jihad, digital deception, and the ethical considerations of AI. As the session concluded with an engaging Q&A, participants were equipped with valuable insights, setting the stage for continued discussions and exploration in subsequent sessions of the International Online Seminar.

 

 

Technical Session 3 - "Philosophy, Religion, and Extremism"

Session Overview: The third Technical Session, titled "Philosophy, Religion, and Extremism," provided a profound exploration into the philosophical and religious dimensions of extremism. Taking place on December 12, 2023, the session featured a distinguished panel of speakers, each contributing unique perspectives on the intricate intersections between philosophy, religion, and the challenges posed by extremism. Dr. Suleyman Eris led the session as the moderator, ensuring a smooth and intellectually engaging experience for participants over the course of one hour and twenty-five minutes.

Moderator: Dr. Suleyman Eris took on the role of the moderator, guiding the session with his scholarly expertise. As an individual well-versed in the nuanced relationship between philosophy, religion, and extremism, Dr. Eris played a crucial role in facilitating a comprehensive exploration of the session's themes. His moderation ensured a cohesive and insightful flow, allowing each speaker to delve into their respective topics with clarity and depth. 

Speakers and Themes:

Atakan Derelioglu:

·        Theme: Epistemology, and Philosophy of Language, Respect for the Sacred

·        Mr. Derelioglu's presentation navigated through the realms of epistemology and the philosophy of language, focusing on the crucial concept of respect for the sacred. His insights provided a philosophical foundation for understanding the sacred in the context of countering extremism.

Jan Paul:

·        Theme: How To Cope With The Current Strong Dualism In The World - Useful Lessons From Hizmet And Mystical Traditions Of The Past For The Context Of Today.

·        Jan Paul's presentation delved into coping mechanisms for the strong dualism prevalent in the world today. Drawing lessons from Hizmet and mystical traditions, he offered valuable insights for navigating the complex landscape of contemporary dualistic challenges.

Ahmet Yayla:

·        Theme: Radicalization towards Extremism

·        Mr. Yayla provided an in-depth exploration of radicalization leading to extremism. His presentation dissected the various factors contributing to the radicalization process, shedding light on the complexities involved in understanding and countering extremist ideologies.

Salim Abdallah:

·        Theme: Intersection of Religion

·        Salim Abdallah's presentation focused on the intersectionality of religion, offering insights into how religious perspectives can intersect and potentially contribute to the dynamics of extremism. His exploration added depth to the session's overarching theme.

Ali Ünsal:

·        Theme: The Place and Significance of Balance in Islam

·        Ali Ünsal's presentation emphasized the critical role of balance in Islam. Exploring the significance of equilibrium within Islamic teachings, he provided valuable insights into how balance can serve as a countermeasure to extremist tendencies.

Question and Answer Session: The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers. The questions spanned a range of topics, from the practical applications of philosophical concepts to the real-world implications of religious intersections. This interactive session enriched the overall experience, providing participants with a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between philosophy, religion, and extremism.

Conclusion: Technical Session 3 provided a thought-provoking exploration into the philosophical and religious dimensions of extremism. The diverse themes covered by the speakers showcased the intricate connections between epistemology, coping with dualism, radicalization, religious intersections, and the importance of balance in Islam. As the session concluded with an engaging Q&A, participants were equipped with profound insights, setting the stage for continued discussions and exploration in subsequent sessions of the International Online Seminar.

 

Day 2 - Technical Session 4: "Challenges of Online Extremism"

Session Overview: The second day of the International Online Seminar commenced with Technical Session 4, titled "Challenges of Online Extremism." This session delved into the pressing issues surrounding the proliferation of extremist content on digital platforms and the challenges faced in countering such narratives. Dr. Salahuddeen Hudawi Kozhithodi led the session as the moderator, facilitating an engaging and insightful discourse among the distinguished panel of speakers over the course of one hour and forty minutes.

Moderator: Dr. Salahuddeen Hudawi Kozhithodi assumed the role of the session's moderator, bringing his expertise in the field to guide the discussions effectively. As an experienced scholar, Dr. Kozhithodi ensured a structured and coherent flow, allowing each speaker to delve into their respective topics with clarity and depth.

Speakers and Themes:

Mohammed Rashid TP:

·        Theme: Extremist Content on Social Media

·        Mr. Mohammed Rashid TP's presentation shed light on the proliferation of extremist content on social media platforms. He highlighted the challenges posed by such content and discussed potential strategies for mitigating its spread.

Muhammad Bishar K and Muhammad Rabeeh KV:

·        Theme: Religious Institutions and Online Extremism

·        This presentation explored the role of religious institutions in addressing online extremism. The speakers discussed the challenges faced by religious organizations in countering extremist narratives and proposed collaborative approaches to tackle the issue effectively.

Safwan K and Muhammed V P:

·        Theme: AI Mediation for Extremist Content

·        Safwan K and Muhammed V P's presentation focused on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in mediating extremist content online. They discussed the potential of AI technologies in detecting and removing harmful content, thereby contributing to efforts to combat online extremism.

M A Mufazzal:

·        Theme: Radicalization and De-Radicalization in the Digital Age: Unraveling the Complex Dynamics

·        M A Mufazzal's presentation delved into the intricate dynamics of radicalization and de-radicalization in the digital era. While the specific details of the theme are not provided, it is evident that Mufazzal's insights shed light on crucial aspects relevant to the broader topic of online extremism. His exploration likely offered valuable perspectives on the mechanisms of radicalization and strategies for effective de-radicalization efforts within digital platforms. Through his presentation, Mufazzal contributed to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between online spaces and extremist ideologies, facilitating discussions on mitigating the risks associated with radicalization in the digital age.

Obaidul Hoque:

·        Theme: Addressing Global Islamophobia

·        Mr. Obaidul Hoque's presentation delved into the global phenomenon of Islamophobia and its implications in the context of online extremism. He discussed strategies for addressing Islamophobia and its role in perpetuating extremist narratives.

Md Sohel Mondal:

·        Theme: Digital Communalism and Misrepresentation

·        This presentation explored the phenomenon of digital communalism and the misrepresentation of religious and communal identities online. The speaker highlighted the challenges posed by such misrepresentation and discussed potential solutions to combat it.

Ajmal K:

·        Theme: Modern Ideologies and Islam

·        Mr. Ajmal K's presentation examined the intersection of modern ideologies and Islam in the digital age. He discussed how contemporary ideologies influence perceptions of Islam and contribute to the proliferation of extremist narratives online.

Question and Answer Session: The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers. The questions encompassed various aspects of online extremism, ranging from the effectiveness of AI technologies to the strategies for combating Islamophobia and digital communalism. This interactive exchange of ideas enriched the session, providing participants with valuable insights and perspectives.

Conclusion: Technical Session 4 offered a comprehensive exploration of the challenges posed by online extremism. The diverse themes covered by the speakers highlighted the multifaceted nature of the issue, from the proliferation of extremist content on social media to the role of AI mediation and the impact of global Islamophobia. As the session concluded with an engaging Q&A, participants departed with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding online extremism and potential strategies for addressing it effectively.

 

 Day 2 - Technical Session 5: "Societal Impact of Extremism"

Session Overview: Day 2 of the International Online Seminar continued with Technical Session 5, focusing on the "Societal Impact of Extremism." This session provided a platform for esteemed speakers to delve into the multifaceted implications of extremism on society, particularly in the context of the digital age. Dr. Mufazzal served as the moderator, guiding the discussion over the course of one hour and ten minutes.

Moderator: Dr. Mufazzal took on the role of the moderator for Technical Session 5. Dr. Mufazzal's moderation facilitated an insightful exploration of the societal ramifications of extremism, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced in contemporary society.

Speakers and Themes:

Mohammad Rafi Rahimi:

·        Theme: Global Perspectives on Religion, Extremism, and the Digital Age: Innovative Approaches for Harmony

·        Mohammad Rafi Rahimi's presentation offered a global perspective on religion, extremism, and the digital age. He explored innovative approaches aimed at fostering harmony amidst the challenges posed by extremism in the digital realm.

Adil_sha:

·        Theme: How Extremism Is Triggered In The Digital Age

·        Adil_sha delved into the mechanisms through which extremism is triggered in the digital age. His presentation provided insights into the digital dynamics that contribute to the radicalization process, shedding light on the evolving nature of extremist narratives online.

Muzammil KP:

·        Theme: Government Policies and Extremism

·        Muzammil KP's presentation examined the role of government policies in shaping extremism. He discussed how government interventions and policies can either exacerbate or mitigate the spread of extremist ideologies within society.

Muhammad Badusha Tm:

·        Theme: Online Experience Of Muslims In India: Facing Anti-Muslim Hate On Digital Platforms

·        Muhammad Badusha Tm provided insights into the online experiences of Muslims in India, particularly in the face of anti-Muslim hate on digital platforms. His presentation highlighted the challenges and discrimination faced by the Muslim community in the digital sphere.

Muhammed Amir Shefin:

·        Theme: "Debating the authentic Islam”: Contextualizing the trajectories of ‘digitalized’ organizational contestations on authority in Kerala

·        Muhammed Amir Shefin's presentation focused on the contestations surrounding the concept of authentic Islam in Kerala. He contextualized these debates within the digital realm, examining the trajectories of organizational contestations on authority.

Umar Farooq M C:

·        Theme: Muslim minority in India is under thread. Islamic religious identity and culture are dominated by majoritarian culture and identity.

·        Umar Farooq M C addressed the challenges faced by the Muslim minority in India, emphasizing the dominance of majoritarian culture and identity over Islamic religious identity and culture. He shed light on the threats posed to the Muslim community and their cultural heritage.

Dr. Mohammed Shabeer:

·        Theme: Examining Religious Tolerance and Coexistence: Insights From The Digital Activism of the Hizmet Movement

·        Dr. Mohammed Shabeer examined religious tolerance and coexistence through the lens of digital activism within the Hizmet Movement. His presentation provided insights into the role of digital platforms in promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Question and Answer Session: The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers. The questions encompassed a wide range of topics, including the impact of government policies on extremism, strategies for countering online hate speech, and the role of digital activism in promoting religious tolerance. This interactive session provided participants with valuable insights and fostered dialogue on effective approaches to addressing the societal impact of extremism.

Conclusion: Technical Session 5 offered a comprehensive examination of the societal impact of extremism, covering topics such as global perspectives on religion and extremism, triggers of extremism in the digital age, government policies, online experiences of marginalized communities, debates on authentic Islam, challenges faced by Muslim minorities, and digital activism for religious tolerance. The diverse perspectives presented by the speakers contributed to a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between extremism and society. As the session concluded with an engaging Q&A, participants departed with valuable insights and actionable strategies for addressing the societal ramifications of extremism in the digital era.

 

 

Closing Session - "Seminar Recap and Closing Remarks"

Session Overview: The concluding session of the International Online Seminar, titled "Seminar Recap and Closing Remarks," provided an opportunity to reflect on the key insights and discussions from the two-day event. Led by Dr. Ali Unsal, the session aimed to summarize the seminar's highlights and key takeaways. Following the recap, Dr. M A Mufazzal delivered a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the participants, organizers, and speakers for their contributions and participation.

Seminar Recap and Closing by Dr. Ali Unsal:

Dr. Ali Unsal, Director of the WISE Institute, took the stage to lead the seminar recap and closing remarks. In his recap, Dr. Unsal highlighted the significance of the seminar in addressing the critical issues of religion, extremism, and the digital age. He emphasized the importance of the diverse perspectives shared by the speakers and the engaging discussions that ensued throughout the event. Dr. Unsal summarized the key themes explored during the seminar, including the role of education in countering extremism, the impact of social media on radicalization, the challenges faced by religious institutions, and the need for collaborative efforts to promote tolerance and understanding in society. Additionally, Dr. Unsal expressed appreciation for the active participation of attendees and underscored the seminar's role in fostering dialogue and advancing solutions to address extremism in the digital era.

Vote of Thanks by Dr. M A Mufazzal:

Following the seminar recap, Dr. M A Mufazzal extended a heartfelt vote of thanks to all participants, organizers, and speakers for their invaluable contributions to the seminar's success. Dr. Mufazzal expressed gratitude to the esteemed speakers for sharing their expertise and insights, which enriched the discussions and deepened understanding of the complex issues surrounding extremism. He also thanked the attendees for their active engagement and participation, which contributed to the seminar's vibrant atmosphere and productive exchanges. Furthermore, Dr. Mufazzal acknowledged the efforts of the organizing committee and support staff for their dedication and hard work in coordinating the seminar. He highlighted the importance of collaboration and collective action in addressing the challenges posed by extremism in today's digital age. In conclusion, Dr. Mufazzal reiterated appreciation to all involved and expressed optimism for continued dialogue and progress in combatting extremism and promoting harmony in society.

Conclusion: The closing session of the International Online Seminar provided a fitting conclusion to two days of insightful discussions and deliberations on the theme of religion, extremism, and the digital age. Led by Dr. Ali Unsal and Dr. M A Mufazzal, the session offered a comprehensive recap of the seminar's highlights and extended gratitude to all stakeholders for their contributions. As participants departed with renewed perspectives and a sense of shared purpose, the seminar concluded on a note of optimism, affirming the importance of continued collaboration and dialogue in addressing the challenges of extremism in today's interconnected world.