As part of the Faculty of Arts expansion and realization of the importance of knowing more languages in the post-earthquake period, the University of Azad Jammu & Kashmir decided to establish the Institute of Languages. The Institute is mandated to promote national and local languages spoken in the region. Azad Kashmir is one of the richest areas of the world in terms of linguistic diversity. It is a meeting ground for many languages from various families. The interaction among these languages gives rise to fascinating phenomena which form the basis of interesting linguistic studies—a haven for linguists.
Another major aim of the Institute includes the teaching of foreign languages which promise bright career opportunities, especially for higher studies in the countries where they are spoken. The major languages to be taught include English, Turkish, Arabic, Chinese, French, and Persian. Additionally, the Institute offers on-demand language courses, subject to faculty availability.
In the post-earthquake scenario, it was realized that the ability to interact with foreigners in their native languages facilitates communication and fosters warm relationships. The presence of foreign workers and international organizations involved in relief and rehabilitation sparked widespread interest in foreign languages.
To implement its objectives, the Institute has already conducted dozens of English language courses. It has collaborated with notable international organizations to offer market-oriented and need-based training in Chinese, Arabic, and Turkish. Another focus of the Institute is the English Support Programme, designed for students needing assistance to succeed in their degree programs or seeking advanced English communicative skills for higher studies or professional development. Special courses are also available for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS preparation.
The Institute also plans to expand by establishing a dedicated Research Unit aimed at promoting research in and preservation of local and endangered languages. It engages with researchers and experts to explore and safeguard lesser-known and marginalized languages. Projects currently underway include the documentation and preservation of Pahari, Hindko, Kashmiri, and Gojri—most notably the compilation of a Pahari dictionary and cultural glossary.
Seminars and workshops on language teaching, linguistic research, and computational skills are also part of the Institute’s mission. Short courses in various languages have already been successfully conducted. Given Pakistan’s expanding geopolitical role and related opportunities, the Institute aims to prepare its workforce to meet communication needs in opportunity-rich countries. Language courses of varying proficiency levels in Chinese, Turkish, and English are currently offered, with instruction delivered by trained professionals through international collaborations.
Phone: +92-5822-960444
Email: languages@ajku.edu.pk