The National University of Modern Languages (NUML) is set to host a major cultural festival in collaboration with the National Heritage and Culture Division, following a high-level meeting on Wednesday. The university also announced plans to formally integrate culture into its language curriculum by renaming its Languages Department, a move aimed at bolstering national cultural policies through academia.
According to a statement today, the significant proposals emerged from a meeting between NUML Rector, Major General (R) Shahid Mahmood Kayani, and Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, where they agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in language promotion and cultural exchange.
Federal Minister Khichi endorsed the Rector”s desire for a joint cultural programme, suggesting a “Cultural Event Week” be organised at the NUML campus in April. He envisioned an event similar to the renowned Lok Mela, where artisans, traditional crafts, and cultural exhibits from across Pakistan would be showcased to educate students on the nation”s rich heritage.
During the discussion, the Rector outlined the university”s strategic decision to rename its Languages Department as the ‘Languages and Culture’ department. He explained this change, planned for approval at the upcoming Board of Governors meeting in January 2026, aligns with the vision of the Chief of Defence Forces, who serves as the board”s Chairman, recognising languages as an integral component of culture.
Major General (R) Kayani briefed the minister on NUML”s role as a welfare-oriented, self-funding institution, highlighting that approximately 9,000 students currently receive free education across its campuses. He also revealed the university is actively exploring options to acquire land or rent a building to establish a presence in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The Rector noted that the institution already organises an annual Summer Gala each April, providing a platform for students to present their native cultures and languages as part of an effort to preserve and promote local traditions.
The proposed partnership aims to expand on these existing initiatives, with the Rector expressing a keen interest in launching a new programme with the ministry to raise cultural awareness among the student body.
The Federal Minister also informed the Rector that his division had organised 31 programmes related to Marka-e-Haq in August. Secretary of the National Heritage and Culture Division, Asad Rehman Gillani, was also present at the meeting.