In a significant stride toward preserving the rich cultural heritage of South Punjab, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (IUB) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona, Spain.
This collaboration, aimed at archaeological research and capacity building, brings together academic expertise from both institutions to delve into the mysteries of the region’s past.
The recent session, chaired by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Naveed Akhtar and moderated by Waqar Mushtaq, served as the platform for discussions that included key participants such as Prof. Dr. Javed Hassaan Chandio, Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Languages; Prof. Dr. Shazia Anjum, Dean of the Faculty of Chemical & Biological Sciences & Director CHRC; Dr. Abid Shahzad, Director International Linkages; and Dr. Moazzam Durrani from the Department of Anthropology. From Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Prof. Dr. Marco Mandela and Prof. Dr. Cristina Pujades actively participated in the online session.
A pivotal moment in the discussion was when Dr. Marco Mandela shared detailed insights into his work on the Indus Valley Civilization, focusing on archaeobotanical studies and excavations. His emphasis on potential areas of cooperation, particularly in the greater Cholistan region, was met with enthusiasm.
Dr. Marco expressed his intention to assist IUB in faculty and student capacity building, showcasing a collaborative spirit that goes beyond the borders.
Waqar Mushtaq, in his role as moderator, introduced Prof. Marco to the audience and outlined the objectives of the MOU. Dr. Naveed Akhtar underscored the significance of the Hakkra Valley civilization, emphasizing the importance of future archaeological research in the region. This collaboration holds the promise of uncovering hidden treasures and shedding light on South Punjab’s historical significance.
Dr. Shazia Anjum shared valuable insights from IUB’s past expedition in Cholistan, setting the stage for continued exploration and discovery. Dr. Javed Hassaan Chandio extended an invitation to Prof. Marco for the next season’s expedition, a gesture that further solidifies the commitment to joint research initiatives.
Dr. Moazzam Durrani brought attention to the importance of Built Heritage and Museums in the Bahawalpur region, emphasizing their role in tourism potential and economic uplift. This holistic approach recognizes the interconnectedness of cultural preservation and its impact on the local community.
The culmination of the session saw both institutions signing a four-year cooperation agreement, signaling a sustained commitment to jointly explore and preserve the archaeology of South Punjab. This collaboration transcends geographical boundaries and holds the potential to contribute significantly to the understanding and promotion of the cultural heritage of the region.
As these two esteemed institutions embark on this collaborative journey, the echoes of the past are set to resonate in the present and shape the future.
Through shared knowledge, expertise, and a united vision, the partnership between IUB and Universitat Pompeu Fabra promises to be a beacon in the preservation of South Punjab’s invaluable heritage. (Edited by Muhammad Saleem)
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