The Department of English at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) organized a study trip for members of the English Literary Society (ELS) to the Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) and the National Language Promotion Department (NLPD), aiming to link classroom learning with the institutions that shape Pakistan’s literary and linguistic heritage.
Under the supervision of Dr. Muhammad Sheeraz Dasti, the delegation visited PAL where students received an introductory address at the institution’s gate that outlined PAL’s role as a central hub for the nation’s literary output. The visit included presentations and a guided tour that highlighted PAL’s archives, ongoing publishing programs, and initiatives to document and preserve Urdu and regional literatures. Dr. Bibi Ameena, a former faculty member and guest speaker, offered historical context and discussed PAL’s contributions to promoting writers and preserving manuscripts.
The second stop was the National Language Promotion Department, where students engaged with language planners and researchers to understand current efforts to promote Urdu and regional languages in education and media. Sessions covered language policy, digital initiatives to expand access to linguistic resources, and collaborative projects designed to bring literary works into schools and public life. Students toured NLPD facilities, reviewed sample materials, and discussed internship and research opportunities that bridge literary study and applied language work.
The trip was designed to provide students with firsthand exposure to the institutions that sustain Pakistan’s intellectual life, enabling them to see how literary scholarship, publishing, and language policy interact. Participants reported that the experience deepened their understanding of literary ecosystems and offered practical insights for future research, careers in publishing, and community outreach. The visit also opened dialogue on how universities and national institutions can collaborate on projects that document oral histories, translate regional works, and expand literacy programs.
“This visit brought theory into vivid practice,” said Dr. Muhammad Sheeraz Dasti. “Seeing how PAL and NLPD operate gave our students a clear picture of the pathways from academic study to cultural preservation and public service. It was an invaluable learning opportunity that will shape their work as scholars and citizens.
IIUI English Department Leads Students on Immersive Study Trip to Pakistan Academy of Letters and National Language Promotion Department
The Department of English at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) organized a study trip for members of the English Literary Society (ELS) to the Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) and the National Language Promotion Department (NLPD), aiming to link classroom learning with the institutions that shape Pakistan’s literary and linguistic heritage.
Under the supervision of Dr. Muhammad Sheeraz Dasti, the delegation visited PAL where students received an introductory address at the institution’s gate that outlined PAL’s role as a central hub for the nation’s literary output. The visit included presentations and a guided tour that highlighted PAL’s archives, ongoing publishing programs, and initiatives to document and preserve Urdu and regional literatures. Dr. Bibi Ameena, a former faculty member and guest speaker, offered historical context and discussed PAL’s contributions to promoting writers and preserving manuscripts.
The second stop was the National Language Promotion Department, where students engaged with language planners and researchers to understand current efforts to promote Urdu and regional languages in education and media. Sessions covered language policy, digital initiatives to expand access to linguistic resources, and collaborative projects designed to bring literary works into schools and public life. Students toured NLPD facilities, reviewed sample materials, and discussed internship and research opportunities that bridge literary study and applied language work.
The trip was designed to provide students with firsthand exposure to the institutions that sustain Pakistan’s intellectual life, enabling them to see how literary scholarship, publishing, and language policy interact. Participants reported that the experience deepened their understanding of literary ecosystems and offered practical insights for future research, careers in publishing, and community outreach. The visit also opened dialogue on how universities and national institutions can collaborate on projects that document oral histories, translate regional works, and expand literacy programs.
“This visit brought theory into vivid practice,” said Dr. Muhammad Sheeraz Dasti. “Seeing how PAL and NLPD operate gave our students a clear picture of the pathways from academic study to cultural preservation and public service. It was an invaluable learning opportunity that will shape their work as scholars and citizens.