Introduction

Established in 1956, the Department of Urdu at the University of Peshawar is one of the oldest and most prestigious centers of Urdu language and literary studies in Pakistan. Starting with only two students, the Department has evolved into a leading academic and research institution in Urdu language, literature, linguistics, and cultural studies.

The Department offers Bachelor of Studies, MPhil, and PhD programs designed to promote advanced learning, critical inquiry, and innovative research. It provides an intellectually stimulating environment where students engage with classical and modern Urdu literature, literary criticism, linguistics, translation studies, and emerging interdisciplinary areas.

The Department has a vibrant literary culture through its literary forum “Majlis-e-Adab”, which provides students and faculty opportunities to share creative and scholarly contributions. The Department publishes its research journal “Khayaban”, providing a platform for academic discourse and literary scholarship.

Over the decades, the Department has benefited from the contributions of eminent scholars, poets, writers, and researchers who have enriched Urdu studies at national and international levels. Its seminar library, containing valuable research resources, is being modernized through digital transformation. The Department continues to contribute to education, research, media, and cultural sectors through its academic and intellectual activities.

The Department has produced numerous MPhil and PhD scholars who are contributing to academia, research, literature, education, and public institutions.

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Vision

The Department of Urdu envisions becoming a leading center of excellence in Urdu language, literature, linguistics, and cultural studies by integrating traditional scholarship with contemporary research approaches. It aims to prepare students to engage with global intellectual developments and contribute meaningfully to knowledge creation.

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Mission

The mission of the Department of Urdu is to promote excellence in teaching and research in Urdu language, literature, and linguistics. The Department aims to develop critical, creative, and analytical skills among students while fostering advanced research, literary understanding, and appreciation of Urdu’s linguistic and cultural heritage.

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Objectives

• To provide quality education and research training in Urdu language, literature, linguistics, and related fields.
• To promote critical thinking, creativity, and scholarly inquiry among students.
• To encourage research in Urdu literature, linguistics, translation studies, and cultural studies.
• To preserve, promote, and document Urdu language and its literary heritage.
• To prepare scholars, researchers, and professionals capable of contributing to national and international academic fields.

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Academic and Research Outcomes

The Department of Urdu continues to advance teaching and research in Urdu language, literature, and linguistics through innovative courses, scholarly research, translation studies, and language documentation initiatives.

The Department promotes academic excellence through research activities, teacher training, digital learning, and collaboration with academic institutions. Its graduates have made significant contributions to literature, education, journalism, research, and cultural fields. The Department takes pride in producing scholars, writers, and researchers who contribute to the promotion and development of Urdu language and literature at national and international levels.