A meeting of Hamdard Naunehal Assembly(HNA), comprising two separate sessions, was held yesterday, at a local hotel here in Karachi. Ms Sadia Rashid, President Hamdard Foundation Pakistan presided over the sessions. The renowned writer, Anwar Maqsood was the chief guest of the first session titled: “Hamdard Naunehal Assembly, a successful journey since 1985.” Ghazi Salahuddin, a prominent journalist and intellectual, was the chief guest of the second session titled: “This is our country, have we played our due part in its progress?” Former members of HNA, who are now professionals serving the nation in different fields, attended the meeting to express their gratitude and pay tribute to Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said and HNA.
In a welcome address, Ms Sadia Rashid said Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said established HNA to enlighten the young minds, boost their confidence, and equip them for future challenges so that they could serve the nation with the best of their abilities.
She said that Hakim Mohammed Said had correctly perceived that in order to make Pakistan a developed and prosperous country, it was necessary to develop the spirit of patriotism among the hearts and minds of all Pakistani children.
Anwar Maqsood paid glowing tribute to Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said for establishing HNA, calling it a unique and innovative forum for children. He appreciated the HNA for its discipline and was particularly impressed by the former members of HNA who were now successful in their respective fields and serving the nation.
Ghazi Salahuddin recalled the words of Hakim Mohammed Said as saying, “Grow children (Naunehals), Pakistan will automatically grow.” He said that Hakim Mohammed Said was an exceptional visionary and patriot. Throughout his life, he was steadfast in promoting the education and health sectors.
Former members also spoke on the occasion and were of the view that HNA played a significant role in grooming and shaping their personalities and character. Hamdard Naunehal Assembly worked as a children’s parliament, similar to the parliament of Pakistan, in order to train and provide the younger generation the opportunities to discuss political and national matters and suggest solutions. Through the Naunehal Assembly, Hakim Mohammed Said provided an opportunity for children to understand state affairs, which was a great service to the nation.
They also stressed the need to promote the education and health of children for the greater progress and prosperity of the country.
Later, Mrs. Sadia Rashidabid presented the Aks-e-Mohr-Nabwi(PBUH) shields to distinguished chief guests. The meeting was concluded with Dua-I-Said, recited by the students of Hamdard Village School.
