As part of its protection and prevention initiatives, the Women’s Affairs Unit at the College of Islamic Sciences – University of Karbala organized a scientific seminar titled “The Role of the Intellectual Class in Confronting Intellectual Extremism.”

The lecture, delivered by Asst. Prof. Dr. Ahmed Rahi Al-Zaidi, addressed several key themes emphasizing the crucial role of the intellectual elite in combating extremism, regarded as one of the gravest threats to the stability and cohesion of societies. Dr. Al-Zaidi explained that a true intellectual serves as a strong barrier against ideological deviations, carrying not only theories but also a message of life that promotes moderation, spreads tolerance, and confronts fanaticism and isolationism through enlightened thought and constructive dialogue.

The seminar highlighted that countering extremism—whether religious, political, or social—requires collective awareness guided by enlightened reasoning. This must be translated into moderate discourse, reform initiatives, and genuine partnerships between cultural elites, academic institutions, and religious authorities.

It also stressed the central role of scholars, academics, intellectuals, and writers in tackling this growing threat and in cultivating a generation capable of distinguishing between constructive thought and destructive deviation.

In conclusion, Dr. Al-Zaidi recommended standing firmly against such negative phenomena from every position of responsibility, citing the Qur’anic principle: “Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock.” He further emphasized the importance of organizing more seminars, awareness workshops, and educational programs that address such sensitive issues, while underscoring the effective role of the intellectual class in confronting these deviations both within educational institutions and society at large, thereby fostering a healthy intellectual environment based on dialogue and moderation.