ISLAMABAD - King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud of Saudi Arabia will be conferred honorary degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Politics and International Relations, Honoris Causa by International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), on the occasion of 9th convocation of the university on Saturday (today).
King Abdullah, who is the custodian of the two holy mosques in Saudi Arabia, will be awarded the degree in recognition of his contributions for welfare of people of Saudi Arabia, Muslim Ummah, education, humanity at large and international peace and tranquility. He is well known personality for his great interest in educational and cultural aspects.
President of Pakistan and Chancellor IIUI Mamnoon Hussain, on recommendations of the Board of Governors, Rector IIUI Dr Masoom Yasinzai and President IIUI Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh, approved the conferment of degree to King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud.
The university's highest award will be conferred on King Abdullah by IIUI Chancellor and President of Pakistan Mamnoon Hussain, which will be received by Pro-Chancellor IIUI Dr Sulaiman Ibn Abdullah Aba Al-Khail on behalf of King Abdullah.
IIUI has also conferred degrees to world famous leaders in its various convocations which include former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela, former Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohammad, Dato Seri Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi, Prince Hassan Bin Talal of Jordan and Dr Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, Secretary General OIC.
A large number of distinguished guests including ambassadors, high commissioners from various countries, prominent political personalities, judges and renowned figures from various aspects of life are expected to join the mega event of the university. Pro-Chancellor IIUI Dr Sulaiman Ibn Abdullah Aba Al-Khail and members of the Saudi delegation from Imam Muhammad Bin Saud University arrived Islamabad to join the convocation. IIUI, keeping its distinction alive, has arranged a separate day for the female students on February 2 while male graduates will be awarded on Feb 1.