The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Prof. Dr. Kaleem Abbasi, emphasized the critical role of languages in the development of nations, stating that while regional languages have been promoted post-independence, Urdu, declared the national language by Quaid-e-Azam, has been neglected. Addressing the closing ceremony of the three-day Sports Gala organized by the Department of Urdu at the Chehla Campus, he reaffirmed the university’s commitment to fostering the growth of Urdu language and literature.

Prof. Dr. Kaleem Abbasi highlighted the successful launch of the MPhil Urdu program during his tenure and expressed the aspiration to initiate a Ph.D. program soon. He commended the Urdu Department for setting a remarkable example through this event and congratulated the Head of Department, Dr. Mir Yousuf Mir, and his team for their efforts. He also encouraged other departments to actively organize similar events to engage students holistically.

The Chief Guest, In-charge ISPR Azad Kashmir, praised the Sports Gala as a positive initiative for youth, urging them to equip themselves with modern skills alongside their education. He stressed the importance of balancing technological advancements with creativity. Other distinguished speakers included Dean Faculty of Arts Prof. Dr. Nadeem Haider Bukhari, Dean Faculty of Sciences Prof. Dr. Muhammad Rafiq, Director Jhelum Valley Campus Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad Awan, Director Kashmir Cultural Academy Faizan Arif Mughal, and Station Director Azad Kashmir Radio Tahir Chughtai.

The event concluded with Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Kaleem Abbasi, the Chief Guest, and other dignitaries distributing shields and trophies among the winning teams. The gathering, which included faculty members, scholars, journalists, and a large number of students, was a testament to UAJK’s vibrant academic and extracurricular culture