TOBA TEK SINGH: The Government College University Faisalabad (GCUF) organised a two-day International Punjabi Conference, bringing together prominent intellectuals, scholars and cultural ambassadors from across the globe.

Experts from the US, Canada, UK, and India gathered to discuss the preservation and promotion of Punjabi language, literature and culture.

Under the theme, Jaggat Geer Akath, the conference focused on Punjabi identity, literature, folklore and linguistic research. It featured panel discussions, research papers, book launches, poetry readings, theatrical performances and music sessions — all aimed at reinforcing the importance of Punjabi as a vibrant and evolving language.

The conference saw participation from renowned scholars, authors and artists, including GCUF Vice Chancellor Dr Rauf Azam, former VC Dr Zakir Hussain, Dr Asma Ghulam Rasool, the head of Punjabi Department, Benish Fatima, the director general Punjab Institute of Language Art & Culture Lahore, Dr Saima Batool and Dr Maryam Sarfraz from the Lahore College for Women University, Ajab Singh Chatha and Balwinder Kaur Chatha from Canada, Sardool Singh and Santokh Singh from UK, Dr Charanjit Singh from the Government College Amritsar, Dr Kalyan Singh Kalyan from the Government College University Lahore and S Gurmit Singh Malhi, the nephew of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, also graced the event.

Dr Rauf Azam emphasised the need for collective efforts in promoting Punjabi as a mother tongue. He highlighted how conferences like these play a crucial role in passing on linguistic and cultural heritage to younger generations.

Dr Asma Ghulam Rasool urged the Punjabi intellectuals and scholars to actively work for educating the masses about the historical and cultural significance of their language. She encouraged the young scholars to engage with Punjabi literature and contribute to its evolution.

Published in Dawn, February 11th, 2025