Department of Pashto

For the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, our language, Pashto, is far more than just a means of communication; it is the very soul of our identity, culture, and heritage. It embodies our history, our poetry, our traditions, and the spirit of our land. In Mardan, the Department of Pashto at Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM) stands as a vital academic center dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and scholarly study of this rich and beautiful language and its literature.

The Department of Pashto plays a crucial role in ensuring that our language continues to thrive and evolve, attracting new generations of scholars, writers, and enthusiasts. It offers specialized degree programs that delve deep into Pashto linguistics, classical and modern literature, folklore, and cultural studies. This commitment to Pashto studies within a prominent university like AWKUM is a testament to the importance we place on our linguistic heritage.

Established with the vision of promoting Pashto language and literature, a significant milestone achieved under the leadership of the then Vice Chancellor, Dr. Professor Ihsan Ali, and at the special request of the esteemed writer Mushtaq ur Rahman (Meem Rey Shafaq), this department holds a special place in the hearts of those passionate about Pashto. It serves as a hub where students can connect with experienced faculty members, including respected figures like Dr. Suhail (the first and current Head of Department), Ms. Shaista, and Dr. Zafar Bakhshali, who are dedicated to imparting knowledge and fostering a love for the language.

For our local youth in Mardan and across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa who cherish our language and aspire to contribute to its legacy, the Department of Pashto at AWKUM offers a unique and fulfilling academic pathway. It's an opportunity not only to gain a formal education but also to immerse oneself in the depths of Pashto thought, expression, and artistry, ensuring that our cultural wealth is passed down and celebrated for generations to come.

Choosing to study Pashto at this department is a commitment to understanding our roots and contributing to the intellectual and cultural future of our beloved Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The Department of Pashto is an integral part of Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM), located at 42XX+CWH, Mohabat Abad Mardan, 23200, Pakistan. This central and accessible location within Mardan city makes it highly convenient for students from various parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to pursue higher education in Pashto language and literature.

Mardan is a major city in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, well-connected to other parts of the province through a robust network of roads. The university's presence within the city, specifically in Mohabat Abad Mardan, ensures that the Department of Pashto is easily reachable via various modes of transportation. For local students residing in Mardan, commuting to the university campus is generally straightforward, whether by private vehicle, public transport such as rickshaws, vans, or local buses. This ease of access minimizes daily travel burdens and allows students to focus more on their academic pursuits.

For students coming from other cities and towns across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mardan serves as a significant educational hub with established transport links. This broad accessibility ensures that a diverse student body, passionate about Pashto language and culture, can benefit from the specialized programs offered by the Department of Pashto, enriching the academic environment and fostering wider participation in higher education focused on our regional heritage. The university campus is typically well-known within Mardan, making navigation to the department relatively simple once on campus.

The strategic location of AWKUM's Department of Pashto in Mardan underscores its role as a key educational institution, drawing students from across the region and contributing significantly to the intellectual and cultural development of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The Department of Pashto at Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM) offers specialized academic programs and related services designed to provide students with a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of Pashto language, literature, and culture. While specific course details may evolve, the primary services offered typically include:

• BS Pashto Degree Program:

  • A comprehensive undergraduate program focusing on various aspects of Pashto language and literature.

  • Covers classical and modern Pashto poetry and prose, literary criticism, linguistics, grammar, phonetics, and historical evolution of the language.

  • Aims to develop critical reading, analytical, and writing skills in Pashto, along with an appreciation for its rich literary tradition.

  • Prepares students for careers in teaching, research, journalism, media, translation, and cultural preservation.

• MA Pashto Degree Program:

  • A postgraduate program that delves deeper into advanced topics in Pashto literature, linguistics, and research methodologies.

  • Offers opportunities for specialized study and research in specific areas of Pashto literary or linguistic history.

  • Aimed at developing high-level analytical skills and preparing students for further academic pursuits (MPhil/PhD) or advanced professional roles.

• Experienced Faculty and Mentorship:

  • The department boasts a team of dedicated and knowledgeable faculty members, including esteemed figures like Dr. Suhail (the first and current Head of Department), Ms. Shaista, and Dr. Zafar Bakhshali. Their expertise provides invaluable guidance and mentorship to students.

  • These faculty members are crucial in shaping students' understanding of Pashto and encouraging scholarly inquiry.

• Research and Scholarly Activities:

  • Faculty members are often engaged in research projects related to Pashto language, literature, folklore, and cultural studies.

  • Students, particularly at the MA level, are encouraged to undertake research projects, contributing to the body of knowledge in Pashto studies.

• Promoting Pashto Language and Culture:

  • Beyond academic instruction, the department serves as a hub for promoting Pashto language, literature, and culture within the university and the wider community.

  • This may involve organizing literary events, seminars, poetry recitations, and cultural programs to foster appreciation for Pashto heritage.

• Supporting Staff:

  • The department is supported by dedicated administrative and support staff, including individuals like Shakeel, Arshid, and Jangay Gul, who ensure the smooth functioning of daily operations and assist students with their needs.

• Foundation for Future Studies and Careers:

  • The programs offered provide a strong academic foundation for students who wish to pursue MPhil or PhD degrees in Pashto or related fields.

  • Graduates are prepared for diverse careers where a deep understanding of Pashto is an asset, including education, media, cultural organizations, government, and non-profit sectors.

The Department of Pashto at AWKUM is committed to upholding the legacy of the Pashto language and fostering its continued growth through rigorous academic programs and community engagement.

The Department of Pashto at Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM) boasts several distinctive features and highlights that make it a significant academic entity within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:

• Pioneering Leadership: The department has the distinction of being led by Dr. Suhail, who is noted as the first and, at least until recent reports, the current Head of the Department. Such continuity and foundational leadership are crucial for establishing academic direction and fostering a strong departmental culture.

• Comprehensive Degree Programs: It offers both the BS Pashto and MA Pashto degree programs. This full spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate studies provides a complete academic pathway for students passionate about the language, allowing for both foundational learning and advanced specialization.

• Experienced and Dedicated Faculty: The presence of "pointer faculty members" like Ms. Shaista and Dr. Zafar Bakhshali, alongside Dr. Suhail, indicates a team of experienced and committed educators. Their expertise is vital for delivering quality instruction and guiding students through the intricacies of Pashto language and literature.

• Historical Establishment with Cultural Vision: The department's establishment at the initiative of the then Vice Chancellor, Dr. Professor Ihsan Ali, and at the behest of a renowned writer like Mushtaq ur Rahman (Meem Rey Shafaq), highlights a deliberate and culturally driven vision behind its creation. This underscores the university's commitment to promoting regional languages and heritage.

• Focus on Pashto Language and Literature: The department's singular focus on Pashto ensures that students receive a specialized and in-depth education. This niche concentration allows for a deeper exploration of Pashto grammar, linguistics, classical and modern poetry, prose, and literary criticism, which is invaluable for preserving and advancing the language.

• Contribution to Cultural Preservation: By offering academic programs in Pashto, the department plays a critical role in the preservation and promotion of Pashtun culture, traditions, and intellectual heritage, ensuring that the rich linguistic legacy is passed on to future generations.

• Support Staff for Smooth Operations: The mention of supporting staff like Shakeel, Arshid, and Jangay Gul, highlights the departmental structure designed to ensure that administrative and logistical needs are met, allowing faculty to focus on teaching and research, and students to focus on their studies.

These features collectively highlight the Department of Pashto at AWKUM as a significant institution for linguistic and cultural studies, dedicated to fostering academic excellence and preserving the rich heritage of the Pashto language in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

As a department within Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM), a public sector university in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the concept of "promotions" or "special offers" does not align with commercial discounts or limited-time enrollment incentives typical of private institutions. Instead, the "offers" are intrinsically tied to the university's mission of providing accessible and quality higher education at government-subsidized rates. The value proposition for students considering the Department of Pashto stems from the inherent benefits of studying at a public university in Pakistan, especially one dedicated to a regional language.

These benefits, which can be considered the "special offers" from a local user's perspective, commonly include:

• Affordable Tuition Fees: Compared to private universities, AWKUM generally offers significantly lower tuition fees for its programs, including BS and MA Pashto. This makes higher education in Pashto language and literature accessible to a broader range of students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, ensuring that financial constraints are not a barrier to pursuing studies in their mother tongue.

• Merit-Based Scholarships and Financial Aid: Like many public universities, AWKUM often provides merit-based scholarships or needs-based financial assistance programs to deserving students. While not exclusive to the Pashto Department, students enrolled in the department can apply for these university-wide opportunities, helping to ease the financial burden of their studies.

• Government-Supported Research Initiatives: Faculty members in the Department of Pashto may engage in research projects funded by government bodies or cultural organizations. While primarily for research, these can indirectly benefit students through opportunities for research involvement or access to specialized resources developed through such initiatives.

• Subsidized Facilities and Resources: The overall university fee structure covers access to general university facilities, including library resources (which would include extensive Pashto literature collections), potentially departmental computer labs, and other academic support services at a subsidized cost.

• Career Development and Networking Opportunities: Being part of a large university, students in the Department of Pashto can benefit from university-level career counseling services, and networking opportunities that could connect them with media houses, cultural organizations, educational institutions, and government bodies that value Pashto language expertise.

• Participation in Cultural and Literary Events: The department, by its nature, often organizes or participates in Pashto literary events, seminars, poetry symposiums, and cultural festivals. These provide unique opportunities for students to engage with renowned Pashto scholars and writers, enriching their academic experience and fostering a deeper connection to their cultural heritage.

For specific and current details on tuition fees, scholarship opportunities, or any available financial aid for the Department of Pashto, prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact the Directorate of Admissions or the Department of Pashto at AWKUM directly. These "offers" reflect the university's commitment to fostering linguistic talent and promoting cultural studies in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

For those interested in learning more about the Department of Pashto at Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM), or to inquire about admissions and specific programs, here is the relevant contact information:

• Address: 42XX+CWH, Mohabat Abad Mardan, 23200, Pakistan

While a direct phone number specifically for the Department of Pashto is not always publicly listed independently from the main university contacts, you can generally reach the university and request to be connected to the relevant department:

• General University Contact Numbers: Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan typically provides general inquiry numbers. For admission-related queries, the Directorate of Admissions often has dedicated lines. It is advisable to search for the latest official contact numbers on the main AWKUM website (awkum.edu.pk). Historical public records indicate numbers like: +92-937-843374 (Directorate of Admissions) or a general inquiry number for the university main exchange. Please note these may be subject to change, and referring to the official university website is always recommended for the most current information.

• Email: Official university websites also typically list email addresses for departments or general inquiries. For admissions, an email like admissions@awkum.edu.pk might be available. For specific departmental queries, you may find an email address on the Department of Pashto's dedicated page on the AWKUM website.

• Website: The official website of Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (awkum.edu.pk) is the best resource for detailed information on the Department of Pashto, its faculty, curriculum, admission requirements, and any current announcements.

Prospective students and their guardians are encouraged to visit the university's official website or contact the main university administration to be directed to the most relevant point of contact for the Department of Pashto.

For students and families in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa who hold our rich linguistic and cultural heritage dear, the Department of Pashto at Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (AWKUM) presents an exceptionally suitable and profoundly valuable academic avenue. Its relevance to our local community in Mardan and the wider province is deeply rooted in its dedication to preserving and promoting our identity.

Firstly, its strategic location within Mardan, a key urban center in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, makes higher education in Pashto language and literature conveniently accessible. This regional presence ensures that students from across the province can pursue specialized studies in their mother tongue without undue logistical or financial burden, fostering a thriving academic environment for Pashto scholars right here at home.

Secondly, as a department of a public sector university, AWKUM offers quality higher education at significantly more affordable tuition fees compared to private institutions. This financial accessibility is a paramount consideration for many families in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, ensuring that the pursuit of a specialized degree in Pashto is within reach for deserving students, irrespective of their economic background. This commitment democratizes access to advanced linguistic and cultural studies, empowering more of our youth to become custodians of our heritage.

Moreover, the comprehensive BS and MA Pashto programs are meticulously designed to delve into the depths of Pashto linguistics, classical literature, and contemporary expressions. This rigorous academic training equips graduates with a profound understanding and appreciation for Pashto, preparing them for diverse roles in education, media, cultural preservation, and research – careers where their expertise in Pashto is not just an asset but a necessity for the region.

The department's establishment with a clear vision to promote Pashto, coupled with the presence of dedicated and experienced faculty members like Dr. Suhail, Ms. Shaista, and Dr. Zafar Bakhshali, further underscores its suitability. These educators are not just teachers but torchbearers of our language, guiding students to explore and contribute to its rich tapestry.

In conclusion, the Department of Pashto at AWKUM is far more than an academic institution; it is a cultural sanctuary and a catalyst for the intellectual and literary growth of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. For aspiring scholars, writers, and anyone deeply connected to our Pashtun identity, this department offers a unique and invaluable opportunity to formalize their passion, contribute to our shared heritage, and secure a future where our language continues to flourish for generations to come, right here in Mardan.

Department of Pashto

42XX+CWH, Mohabat Abad Mardan, 23200, Pakistan