By Uzma Ehtasham
KARACHI: Senior figures from the University of Karachi’s Department of Persian Language and Grammar have met Iran’s consul general in Karachi, Akbar Isa Zadeh, in discussions focused on strengthening Persian studies and expanding academic ties between Pakistan and Iran.
The meeting, held at the Iranian consulate in Karachi, brought together academics and diplomats who reviewed the historical role of Persian in South Asia’s education system and its continuing cultural significance.
Participants from the university outlined the department’s current teaching activities and proposed new initiatives, including the introduction of additional courses aimed at encouraging wider uptake of Persian language studies in Pakistan’s academic institutions.
According to those present, the discussion also centered on the practical value of Persian beyond the classroom, with suggestions that stronger language skills could open up opportunities in trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.
Iran’s consul general described the University of Karachi as an important academic center and said Persian remains a shared cultural heritage linking the two nations. He acknowledged the challenges facing the promotion of the language and pledged continued support to address them.
Faculty members from the Persian department argued that if students were trained to a professional level, their language skills could be applied in commercial sectors, potentially creating employment opportunities and increasing student interest in the subject.
They also noted a recent boost to academic engagement, highlighting that after a gap of 25 years, a Persian language professor from Iran has joined the University of Karachi for teaching duties. Staff said this had already begun to improve academic standards and revive institutional links with Iranian universities.
