-37th Punjabi Language Development Conference Begins at Punjabi University
-Preserving Heritage in the Age of Technology is a Key Challenge: Vice-Chancellor Dr. Jagdeep Singh
Patiala, January 28
Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh today inaugurated the 37th Punjabi Language Development Conference at Punjabi University, Patiala. He stressed that remaining connected to one’s language and culture is vital, as the very identity of Punjabis is deeply rooted in the Punjabi language.
Speaking on the conference theme — “Use of Punjabi Language as a Medium in Higher Education: Problems and Solutions” — the Minister said that even as the world advances into the era of Artificial Intelligence, intellectual development must continue through the habit of reading books. He underscored the need to safeguard the unique essence of Punjabiyat and added that the successful implementation of government welfare schemes depends on the active participation and cooperation of every section of society.
Vice-Chancellor Dr. Jagdeep Singh, in his welcome address, described preserving cultural heritage in the high-tech era as one of the biggest contemporary challenges. He pointed out that since data forms the backbone of Artificial Intelligence, it is the duty of scholars and researchers to ensure that authentic, verified information about Punjabi literature, language, and culture is readily available online. He further noted that the university’s role has expanded significantly under the National Education Policy (NEP), which strongly promotes the use of regional languages as the primary medium of instruction.
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Special guest Dr. Jasbir Singh Gill from the USA highlighted the intersection of the Punjabi language and cyber security. He urged Punjab to position itself as a global hub for Artificial Intelligence development.
Keynote speaker Dr. Malkeet Singh Saini focused on the practical aspects of teaching science in the mother tongue. He acknowledged the current shortage of technical terminology in Punjabi but explained that this challenge can be overcome by adopting strategies similar to those used by languages like English and Russian, which borrowed scientific terms from Latin and Greek.
The inaugural session featured the release of several books and research journals. It concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dean Academic Affairs Dr. Jaswinder Singh Brar and was effectively moderated by Department Head Dr. Gursewak Lambi.
The conference aims to deliberate on ways to strengthen Punjabi as a medium of higher education while addressing modern challenges posed by technology and globalization.
