Int’l Mother Language Day Celebrated at IUST

Awantipora :The Habba Khatoon Centre for Kashmiri Language & Literature, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), celebrated International Mother Language Day in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and Young Dramatists Society of Kashmir.
The event was presided over by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, featuring Shafi Shauq, a Padma Shri awardee, as the Chief Guest, and Prof. Majrooh Rashid as the Guest of Honour. Attendees included academic leaders and representatives from collaborating institutions. In his address, Prof. Shafi Shauq emphasized the importance of the Kashmiri language, highlighting its literary and social contributions and advocating for its adaptation to technological platforms to ensure its relevance in the digital age. Prof. Romshoo underscored the role of mother tongues in enhancing learning, creativity, and cultural continuity. He commended the Centre’s initiatives and proposed the introduction of technology-oriented, language-based courses to improve linguistic engagement and employability. Additionally, he suggested forming a consortium of institutions across Kashmir to further promote the Kashmiri language. Dr. Afshana, the Centre’s Coordinator, welcomed the guests and highlighted the day’s significance. Prof. Ayaz Hassan Moon called on the younger generation to take responsibility for promoting the Kashmiri language, while Prof. Majrooh Rashid noted the language’s vitality, with nearly 100 new books published annually. Prof. Afroz Ahmad Bisati reflected on the language’s rich heritage, tracing its roots from Lal Ded to Sheikh-ul-Alam. The program also included literary discussions, cultural presentations, and academic deliberations, reinforcing the commitment to the Kashmiri language and culture.