AIOU, NBF Ink MoU to Promote Languages and Translation
— March 26, 2025
ISLAMABAD (AIA) The Centre for Languages and Translation Studies (CELTS) at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) and the National Book Foundation (NBF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday to strengthen academic collaboration in language promotion and translation.
Registrar Raja Umar Yunus signed the agreement on behalf of AIOU, while Secretary Murad Ali Mohmand represented the NBF. The signing ceremony was presided over by AIOU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Nasir Mahmood.
In his address, Dr Mahmood highlighted Pakistan’s linguistic diversity, noting that 70 languages are spoken across the country, making it a rich multicultural nation. He explained that CELTS was established to equip graduates with the skills to promote regional languages and facilitate knowledge transfer across different languages.
He further emphasised that the collaboration would enable NBF to receive valuable academic material from AIOU, which would contribute to fostering religious and cultural harmony in Pakistan.
Managing Director of NBF, Dr Kamran Jahangir, welcomed the agreement and expressed optimism about its impact. He stated that the availability of such study material would not only benefit individuals but also play a crucial role in shaping society.
CELTS Director Dr Ghulam Ali elaborated on the objectives of the MoU, stating that the partnership would enhance academic cooperation and advance the field of translation. The event was attended by senior officials, including Professor Dr Abdul Aziz Sahir, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities.