Professor Dr. Muhammad Sarwar, TI
Integrity stands as a cornerstone of personal and professional success, guiding individuals towards authenticity and moral fortitude. As emerging faculty and university students embark on their academic and professional journeys, they face myriad opportunities to compromise their integrity in pursuit of external validation. This often means working under the influence of others’ expectations, neglecting one’s dreams, mission, vision, goals and self-conscious gratification. Such an approach reduces one’s role to mere compliance, eroding one’s innovative thinking and effectiveness as a citizen. Under such circumstances, one not only devalues their quality but also compromises their integrity. However, history’s great men and heroes serve as compelling examples of the enduring value of integrity, even in the face of adversity. The aphorism “If you are ever tempted to look for outside approval, realize that you have compromised your integrity” resonates deeply in this context, reminding one of the intrinsic worth of staying true to oneself. This article offers advice for emerging faculty and university students, drawing inspiration from historical figures who exemplify unwavering integrity and moral courage.
Integrity, defined by the alignment between one’s actions, beliefs and values, is exemplified by figures such as Saladin Ayubi, whose chivalry, magnanimity and commitment to justice during the Crusades stand as a testament to the enduring power of integrity even in times of conflict and strife. Similarly, Muhammad bin Qasim’s adherence to principles of justice and fair governance, despite facing formidable opposition during his conquests in the Indian subcontinent, underscores the importance of integrity in upholding ethical standards and fostering societal cohesion.
In academia, the contributions of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad highlight the profound impact of educational integrity. Sir Syed’s efforts in establishing the Aligarh Muslim University fostered intellectual growth and social reform, while Azad’s dedication to secularism and education reform helped shape modern India’s educational landscape.
In science, Dr. Abdus Salam’s pioneering work in theoretical physics and Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan’s significant contributions to Pakistan’s nuclear program underscore the importance of intellectual integrity and ethical responsibility in scientific endeavors.
In politics, Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s principled stand against racial injustice and his refusal to compromise his beliefs, even at great personal cost, inspire generations to uphold integrity in the pursuit of excellence. His unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy and religious freedom, despite formidable challenges during the partition of India, highlights the transformative potential of integrity in shaping the course of nations. Nelson Mandela’s commitment to his principles, persistence, and tolerance, despite being jailed for more than two decades, followed by his forgiveness, is a lesson for the world. Today, leaders like Imran Khan continue to embody the principles of integrity and accountability, championing transparency and justice in the face of entrenched corruption and vested interests.
Among sports personalities, Muhammad Ali Boxer’s resilience in overcoming adversity and commitment to his principles, even at the cost of his career, serve as powerful reminders of the importance of maintaining one’s values amidst acclaim. Michael Jordan’s dedication to excellence and his relentless pursuit of greatness on and off the basketball court reflect the integrity and discipline necessary to achieve and sustain success. Imran Khan’s journey from cricketing legend to philanthropic and political leader exemplifies the seamless integration of sportsmanship, integrity, and service to society.
In philanthropy, figures like Abdul Sattar Edhi, whose lifetime of selfless service to humanity epitomizes altruistic integrity, demonstrate the lasting impact of compassion-driven initiatives. Bill Gates’ transition from business magnate to global philanthropist underscores the importance of leveraging resources for the greater good. Imran Khan’s philanthropic efforts, particularly through the establishment of Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, reflect his commitment to serving humanity without seeking recognition.
As emerging faculty and university students navigate the complexities of academia and professional life, they must draw inspiration from these diverse examples, recognizing that integrity transcends individual achievements and encompasses a commitment to ethical conduct and moral courage.
In conclusion, the aphorism “If you are ever tempted to look for outside approval, realize that you have compromised your integrity” serves as a powerful reminder for emerging faculty and university students to prioritize authenticity and moral courage in their academic and professional pursuits. By drawing inspiration from the examples of history’s great men and heroes, they can cultivate the integrity and resilience needed to navigate the complexities of their chosen paths with grace and purpose, leaving a lasting legacy of integrity and moral leadership. Ultimately, embracing integrity fosters personal growth, innovation and a sense of fulfillment that far surpasses the fleeting satisfaction of external validation.
Author is Pro-Rector at The University of Lahore, Sargodha Campus
