ISLAMABAD: Allama Iqbal Open University and the National Language Promotion Department have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen the promotion of Urdu through joint research, teaching and academic initiatives.

The agreement brings together the academic resources and expertise of both institutions to support Urdu-language research, expand educational cooperation and improve access to scholarly material.

Under the MoU, AIOU and NLPD will undertake collaborative research projects, exchange publications and research reports, and jointly organise academic activities. The two institutions will also use their available resources and professional expertise to improve the quality of research and community-focused services.

AIOU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Nasir Mahmood signed the agreement on behalf of the university, while NLPD Director General Prof Dr Mazhar Saleem represented the National Language Promotion Department.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Prof Dr Nasir Mahmood said stronger institutional cooperation was essential for the development and promotion of the national language.

He said the partnership was expected to create fresh opportunities in Urdu teaching, research and academic development, while providing greater support to students, teachers and researchers.

Prof Dr Mazhar Saleem described the agreement as an important step towards the effective promotion and implementation of Urdu.

He said joint initiatives by AIOU and NLPD would help enrich academic and research resources in Urdu and encourage its wider use in education and scholarly work.

The agreement also reflects broader efforts to strengthen Urdu’s role in academic institutions by improving coordination between universities and government bodies responsible for language development.

The signing ceremony was attended by NLPD Executive Director Dr Rashid Hameed, along with deans, professors and senior officials of Allama Iqbal Open University.

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