Team Saah Rise hosted an open and honest study circle at Quaid-e-Azam University (QAU), creating a safe space for minority students to share their lived experiences, struggles, and hopes. The discussion began with an introduction to Saah Rise, followed by participants from diverse minority backgrounds who courageously spoke about their realities within and beyond the university.
Students highlighted key concerns, including challenges in hostel allotment, being used as tokens in student politics, and the lack of dedicated spaces for religious practice on and off campus. Some shared deeply troubling experiences pressure to convert, insensitive and hurtful remarks about religious beliefs, and discrimination faced in areas like Barakahu and Islamabad while others spoke of positive interfaith friendships and moments of harmony at QAU.
The discussion also addressed forced conversions in Tharparkar, particularly affecting young girls, and the risks faced by activists working on these issues. Participants emphasized the importance of caution in religious debates, solidarity among minority students, and the need to build collective agency to raise concerns with university authorities.
Voices from across faiths, including a Muslim participant who spoke about discrimination within Muslim sects, reinforced a shared understanding: discrimination is real, layered, and demands empathy and action.
Saah Rise’s way forward: unity, regular monthly dialogues, and connecting students’ concerns with interfaith activists, policymakers, and relevant institutions. As activists, we may not hold formal power but we amplify voices, build bridges, and push for change.
Listening is resistance. Solidarity is strength.