LAHORE:The 7th International Punjabi Conference started at the Lahore College for Women University (LCWU) here on Tuesday bringing together prominent intellectuals, scholars, and cultural ambassadors from across the globe.
Experts from the USA, Canada and Norway gathered to discuss the preservation, promotion, and academic study of Punjabi language, literature, and culture. Dean Faculty of Islamic learnings and Oriental Languages Prof Dr Faleeha Kazmi was the chief guest at the inaugural session.
The delegates from abroad attending the conference included Prof Dr Harjinder Singh, Prof Dr Charanjit Singh, Ajaib Singh Chattha, Ranjeet Singh Rana, Sardul Singh Thiara, Santoke Singh sandhu, Rupinder Kaur, Harkiran Kaur Sandhu, Dr Harjap Singh Sandhu, Prabhjot Singh, Hakumat Singh, and Balvinder Singh Chattha.
The delegates focused on Punjabi identity, literature, folklore, and linguistic research. It featured panel discussions, research paper presentations, book launches, poetry readings, theatrical performances, and music sessions–all aimed at reinforcing the importance of Punjabi as a vibrant and evolving language.
Dr Faleeha Kazmi emphasised the need for collective efforts in promoting Punjabi as a mother tongue. Dr Mujahida, Chairperson of the Punjabi Department, stated that Punjabi intellectuals and scholars must actively work towards educating the masses about the historical and cultural significance of their language. She encouraged young scholars to engage with Punjabi literature and contribute to its evolution.
Students, teachers showcase innovations
A grand STEAM Festival was organised by the School Education Department (SED) Punjab, showcasing innovative STEAM-Models.
The event was held in collaboration with the FCDO, Global Partnership for Education, UNICEF and PMIU. Out of 275,000 participants from across Punjab, over 1,100 winners were selected to participate in Jashan-e-STEAM. More than 14,000 teachers also took part in the STEAM competitions. The exhibition featured 110 selected STEAM models, while seven projects shortlisted for cash prizes. Winning students were awarded cash prizes of Rs1.4 million. Education Minister Punjab Rana Sikandar Hayat visited the event, encouraged the students, and announced that all 1,100 participating students would receive laptops. He expressed hope that the provision of laptops would enhance students' creativity and foster a culture of research. He added that efforts are under way to upgrade science and IT labs in public schools with modern facilities to polish the students' potential. Spoken English classes would also soon be launched in public schools. The minister highlighted that the purpose of organising the ‘STEAM Festival’ was to promote scientific innovation among students, as STEAM education has become essential for keeping pace with modern advancements. Parents and relatives of students also visited the exhibition and appreciated the creative efforts on display.
250 delegates feature in GCU MUN moot
The Debating Society of GCU on Tuesday hosted its third Model United Nations (MUN) conference, welcoming over 250 delegates from dozens of universities across the country.
As many as six committees engaged in diplomatic debates on various global issues, formulating and passing several resolutions. Delegates from diverse backgrounds contributed unique perspectives, enriching the quality of discussions. FC College won the Best Delegation Award at the conference. GCU Advisor to Students' Affairs M Siddique Awan emphasised that GCU students have made a notable impact in the field of diplomacy.
Admission date extended
The UET Lahore has announced an extension in the admission date for the two-year Associate Degree Programmes. According to details, the deadline for filling out the online application form and submitting the admission form has been extended from February 10 to February 25. Now, students will be able to submit their applications until February 25. It is important to note that ECAT is not required for admission in two-year Associate Degree Programmes.
