LAHORE, A two-day international conference on the Punjabi language, emphasizing the need for social change to promote the language, was held at the University of Punjab. The event, titled ‘Punjabi: as an Academic and Functional Language,’ was organized by the Punjab University Institute of Punjabi and Cultural Studies in collaboration with the Punjab Institute of Languages, Art and Culture.

According to University of The Punjab, the conference was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Shahid Munir, Chairman of the Punjab Higher Education Commission. He stressed the importance of societal efforts in promoting the Punjabi language, beyond relying on government patronage. He highlighted Punjab’s unique characteristics and the need for harmonizing modern technology with the region’s development.

The conference was attended by notable speakers including Prof. Dr. Khalid Mahmood, Vice-Chancellor of Punjab University; Dr. Nabila Rehman, Director of the Punjab University Institute of Punjabi and Cultural Studies; and international experts from Canada, America, England, and Turkey. Discussions revolved around the significance of the Punjabi language in various spheres and the importance of integrating it into the education system.

Key points raised during the conference included the importance of understanding complex subjects in one’s mother tongue, the role of Punjabi language organizations in Canada, and the impact of Punjabi Sufis in shaping moral values. Speakers also touched upon the rich history and identity of different cities and towns in Punjab, and the need for an education system that imparts moral values.

Additionally, the conference highlighted the success of Punjabis in countries like Canada, where they hold significant positions and contribute to parliamentary activities. The role of translation in promoting mother tongues and national languages was also discussed.

The conference concluded with the distribution of souvenirs to the guests and will continue with further discussions and presentations.