The Center for Languages

Training Session By OUP

Faculty at the Center for Languages (CFL) attended a professional development workshop hosted by Oxford University Press Pakistan on Transforming Grammar Instruction with Oxford Practice Grammar on August 26, 2025. Led by Ms. Neda Mulji, Senior Manager, Professional Development at OUP, the session introduced innovative, student-centered strategies for teaching grammar. CFL extends sincere thanks to Oxford University Press and Ms. Mulji for this valuable learning opportunity.

Presentation of Revamped Course Outlines

The Center for Languages (CFL) organized a presentation on August 25, 2025, to showcase the revamped course outlines for English I, II, and III (Fall 2025). Ms. Amnah Moghees, Ms. Naheed Ashfaq, and Mr. Imran Bhatti presented the collaboratively prepared outlines, designed to foster creativity, AI integration, research competence, and practical communication skills. Head CFL, Ms. Sobia Ilyas, appreciated the team’s efforts and offered constructive feedback to keep the courses coherent, learner-centered, and future-ready.

Advancing SDG 4: AI Tools for Teaching and Research

The Research Committee at CFL proudly presents a training workshop on AI in Academia, titled: "Advancing SDG 4: AI Tools for Teaching and Research"Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Date: August 5, 2025
Venue: 2N-10
This workshop is designed to promote the responsible and effective use of AI among faculty members, ensuring that educators are equipped to integrate AI tools into their teaching and research in alignment with ethical and academic standards. It emphasizes the importance of using AI to support pedagogical goals, maintain academic integrity, and enhance scholarly practices. Moreover, the workshop aims to empower faculty to elevate the quality of higher education through intelligent digital support. By introducing practical tools and strategies, it enables educators to streamline research, improve instructional delivery, and make informed, ethical use of emerging technologies, contributing to the advancement of SDG 4: Quality Education in higher education settings.

Digital Leadership Service

We are proud to recognize Ms. Zara Saleem from the Center for Languages (CFL), School of Liberal Arts (SLA), for her successful completion of a six-month service as a Community Lead on the OPEN Alumni Community of Practice. This prestigious international platform is supported by the Office of English Language Programs, Bureau of Educational & Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State.

Ms. Saleem’s role involved facilitating professional engagement and collaborative learning among English language educators worldwide. Her contribution demonstrates a strong commitment to academic leadership and global outreach in the field of language education.

In acknowledgment of her efforts, she has been awarded a certificate signed by the OPEN Global Program Officer, Ms. Darlene Wiggins Dockery.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Saleem on this noteworthy accomplishment.

Multimodality and the Language Classroom

2025-07-15

The Center for Languages hosted a thought-provoking webinar titled “Multimodality and the Language Classroom” on July 15, 2025, featuring Wendy Naylor from Radboud University, Netherlands. With extensive teaching experience across Asia, South America, Europe, and the Middle East, Wendy shared valuable insights on enhancing language learning through multimodal approaches. The webinar was well-received for its engaging content and practical relevance. It was graced by the presence of the Head of CFL and DELS, as well as the active participation of CFL and DLC faculty, whose involvement contributed to the success of the session.

Multimodality and the Language Classroom

2025-07-14

The Center for Languages (CFL) invites you to a thought-provoking webinar titled "Multimodality and the Language Classroom," featuring Wendy Naylor from Radboud University, Netherlands. Join us on July 15, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM as Wendy shares her extensive international experience and insights into multimodal approaches in language education. The session will be hosted by Ms. Naheed Ashfaq Qureshi.

Microsoft Team's link

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NDg2MDhlM2ItYzY4NC00MTI1LWEyNzEtZTNhNzViZTExMjEw%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%2275df096c-8b72-48e4-9b91-cbf79d87ee3a%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22e6f2ed98-c9fc-4545-b864-f5cc746012b0%22%7d

Gateway to Japan: Opportunities for Pakistani Graduates

On June 24th, 2025, the Center for Languages, SLA, and the Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialization (ORIC) organized an engaging seminar titled “Gateway to Japan: Opportunities for Pakistani Graduates.” The event featured distinguished guests from the Pakistan-Japan Socioeconomic Association (PJSA), who were specially invited to share their insights and expertise. The keynote speaker Ms. Sitara Arif, President PJSA, highlighted the critical importance of learning the Japanese language and focused on the diverse career and educational opportunities available for Pakistani graduates in Japan. The event was honored by the presence of Dean SLA, Dr. Nadia Anwar, and Head CFL, Ms. Sobia Ilyas, who attended the seminar and added prestige to the occasion. The seminar also featured impactful speeches and a short play in Japanese by PJSA students. Overall, the seminar was a vibrant platform that showcased the opportunities awaiting Pakistani graduates in Japan.

Gateway to Japan: Opportunities for Pakistani Graduates

SLA-CFL in collaboration with the Pakistan Japan Socioeconomic Association (PJSA), is hosting a seminar titled "Gateway to Japan: Opportunities for Pakistani Graduates" on June 24, 2025. The session will feature Ms. Sitara Arif, President of PJSA, as the distinguished guest speaker. Join us to explore academic and career prospects in Japan and gain valuable insights into international pathways for Pakistani youth.

LitSearch

The Center for Languages launched 'LitSearch' under the collaborative banner of the Literary Society and the Research Committee, a platform for scholarly dialogue and critical inquiry. The inaugural session, held on May 14, 2025, brought together faculty members to share their research and engage in meaningful discussions.

Ms. Amnah Moghees, Ms. Shama Iqbal Hussain, Ms. Zara Saleem, and Ms. Sadia Noreen presented their research works, followed by a thought-provoking Q&A session. Dr. Muhammad Aslam, Associate Professor at UCP, Lahore, graced the occasion as the chief guest.

CFL Literary Society - Book Club Session

On April 30, 2025, the Research Committee, Center for Languages (CFL) hosted an engaging and informative talk titled "Writing and Publishing in Quality Journals," held from 10:00 to 11:30 AM in Room MC02. The session was designed to equip faculty members with effective strategies for academic writing, selecting credible journals, and navigating the complexities of the publication process. Aligned with the objectives of FISCA , this initiative aimed to foster a strong research culture by supporting faculty in their scholarly pursuits. Serving as a meaningful platform for academic development, the event offered practical insights to enhance participants’ research output and promote greater contributions to academic discourse.

Book Club Session

On May 3rd, the CFL Literary Society hosted its second Book Club session—part of its ongoing series exploring contemporary literature and media. Held online, the event saw international participation by PhD scholars from Germany

Attendees included Ms. Sadia Noreen, Ms. Shama Iqbal Hussain, and Ms. Aasma Nijabat. The discussion centered on the show Adolescence, analyzing its depiction of the manosphere and its impact on young audiences. Participants shared insightful perspectives on the psychological and social implications, along with strategies to counter harmful media narratives.

Be part of an enriching guest talk by Ms. Shazia Aziz on April 30, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM in MCO2. Hosted by the Research Committee under the Center for Languages, this session promises thought-provoking discussions and valuable takeaways. We look forward to your participation!

On 24^th April, 2025, the Content Writing Team at the Center for Languages (CFL), organized a seminar on “Auto Answers and Silent Questions: Fighting for Critical Thinking in the AI Age"Led by Mr. Muhammad Ali, a seasoned government officer, the session focused on the crucial need to preserve critical thinking and intellectual inquiry in a time increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence.

The seminar explored both the positive and negative impacts of AI, highlighting the importance of a balanced and ethical approach to its use. Participants were encouraged to reflect on how the convenience of instant, AI-generated answers can restrain curiosity and limit deeper questioning. The session emphasized the importance of nurturing a questioning mindset, especially in educational and professional settings, to ensure that innovation does not come at the cost of independent thought.

Exploration of Desert Narratives in Contemporary Times

The Center for Languages (CFL) conducted a webinar on "Exploration of Desert Narratives in Contemporary Times" on February 12, 2025, which proved to be a resounding success. The event brought together a diverse audience of faculty and scholars. Dr. Celina Osuna’s captivating discussion of her latest book, Storied Deserts: Reimagining Global Arid Lands, offered deep insights into the cultural, environmental, and historical significance of deserts. The session illuminated the emerging field of Desert Humanities, sparking enriching conversations and providing fresh perspectives on how deserts are represented in contemporary literature and interdisciplinary studies. The webinar, moderated by Ms. Shama Iqbal Hussain, was a truly insightful and thought-provoking experience for all who attended.

The Center for Languages (CFL) invites you to an exciting online session with Dr. Celina Osuna, Assistant Professor of English at the University of Texas, as she discusses her latest book, Storied Deserts: Reimagining Global Arid Lands. In this session, Dr. Osuna will explore how deserts are more than just empty landscapes—they are dynamic spaces of cultural, environmental, and historical significance.

Titled "Exploration of Desert Narratives in Contemporary Times," the webinar will explore the emerging field of Desert Humanities and its impact on literature and interdisciplinary studies. Moderated by Ms. Shama Iqbal Hussain, this session promises to be an enriching discussion for faculty, students, and enthusiasts alike.

Date: 12th February 2025 (Wednesday)
Time: 09:30 AM
Speaker: Dr. Celina Osuna (University of Texas)
Organized by: Ms. Shama Iqbal Hussain

Zoom Link: (Session 1) https://us04web.zoom.us/j/77018974883?pwd=hGhxeTas1Hw99g7vNEya3J3yEIoczJ.1

Meeting ID: 770 1897 4883

Passcode: x0n3A7

(Session 2) https://us04web.zoom.us/j/79905780832?pwd=7oZ0rbaaveA2kuLV5NoI6cMG2gEglp.1

Meeting ID: 799 0578 0832

Passcode: j9ApWP

Don’t miss this opportunity to reimagine desert landscapes through the lens of storytelling and scholarship!

On January 22, 2025, the UMT School of Liberal Arts, Center for Languages (Research Committee), in collaboration with IELTA Pakistan, hosted an engaging webinar titled "Testing Times for Teens: Sustainable Assessment and Evaluation Without Tears." Organized and hosted by Ms. Zara Saleem, the session featured renowned guest speaker Alastair Grant, Academic Director, English Teacher, and Teacher Trainer based in Mexico.

This insightful session focused on innovative and sustainable approaches to assessment and evaluation, highlighting strategies to alleviate the stress associated with testing, particularly for teenagers. Educators and researchers from around the globe attended, contributing to a rich exchange of ideas. International participants hailed from diverse countries and esteemed institutions, including India, Argentina, Indonesia, and Mexico.

The webinar, streamed live on IELTA Pakistan's Facebook page, was held from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM. It served as a valuable platform for fostering global collaboration and exploring progressive solutions in the field of education.

Sustainable Assessment and Evaluation Without the Tears

Join us for the event "Testing Times for Teens: Sustainable Assessment and Evaluation Without the Tears," hosted by the UMT School of Liberal Arts, Center for Languages (Research Committee), in partnership with IELTA Pakistan. Guest Speaker: Alastair Grant, Academic Director, English Teacher, and Teacher Trainer, Mexico. This session will take place on January 22, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM. For more details, reach out to [email protected], CFL Research Committee.

The Elements of the Absurd in Post-9/11 Rajiv Joseph's Plays

The Literary Society at the Centre for Languages (CFL) successfully hosted a stimulating Literary Talk on December 11, 2024, at Saleem Asghar Hall. Organized by Ms. Sadia Noreen, the event featured Dr. Qurrat-ul-Aen Liaqat, Associate Professor at Forman Christian College, Lahore, as the keynote speaker. A follow-up tea session was attended by Dr. Nadia Anwar, Dean, Dr. Bushra Siddiqui, CoD of DELS, and Dr. Aminah Khalid, CoD of DLC, where potent collaborations were discussed, marking a step forward in fostering academic partnerships.

Mr. Shahzad Nabi from the Center for Languages (CFL) organized a workshop titled "Cracking the Code: Mastering Strategies for Success in Pakistan's Competitive Exams" on Thursday, December 5, 2024, for CSS aspirants enrolled in the Essay, Precis, and Composition Writing Batch-01.

The session featured three outstanding Civil Servants of Pakistan (CSPs) from PMS Batch-13—Ms. Zobia Javed, Mr. Saad Maqsood, and Mr. Uzair Jathol—who shared their valuable experiences and expert strategies for excelling in Pakistan's competitive exams.

During the workshop, the speakers addressed the students' queries, offering practical guidance on tackling challenges, setting goals, and staying motivated throughout their preparation journey. The interactive format allowed students to gain insights into effective study techniques, time management, and the mindset required to achieve success.

The session received enthusiastic feedback from the participants, who appreciated the opportunity to learn directly from accomplished professionals. The workshop not only equipped students with actionable strategies but also inspired them to approach their exams with renewed focus and confidence.

This event exemplified CFL's commitment to empowering students through experiential learning and meaningful engagement with field experts.

Ms. Sadia Noreen from Center for Languages (CFL) organized a session on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. Students from the Business Communication course, taught by Ms. Sadia Noreen, took the spotlight, presenting their innovative business ideas to a panel of distinguished faculty members who cosplayed as investors. The panel featured renowned academics from the Dr. Hassan Murad School of Management (HSM) and the School of Liberal Arts (SLA), including Dr. M. Irfan Aamer, Dr. Abdul Ghaffar, Dr. M. Ali Haider Chouhan, Dr. Safia Nosheen, Dr. Priya Avais, Ms. Amna Moghees, and Ms. Shama Iqbal Hussain.

The event received immense praise from the external panel, who commended the students for their confidence, creativity, and professional demeanor. The participants displayed exceptional preparation and communication skills, bringing energy and innovation to the event. The engaging setup, coupled with insightful feedback from the evaluators, created an enriching learning experience that bridged academic theory with practical application. The enthusiasm of the students and the positive reception from the panel made the event a memorable success, highlighting the value of experiential learning in fostering real-world competencies.

On November 20, 2024, the Center for Languages (CFL) conducted a workshop titled "Research and Funding Collaborative Opportunities in Higher Education." It was designed to help SLA faculty learn practical ways to secure research funding and build strong collaborations that align with the FISCA 2024 plan. Dr. Shahid Imran and Dr. M. Mujtaba Abbas led the session with engaging talks, sharing valuable tips on finding funding and creating partnerships. The workshop emphasized how teamwork and innovation can push academic research forward.

Research and Funding Collaborative Opportunities in the Higher Education Sector: Building Bridges for Sustainable Growth

The Centre for Languages (CFL) at the School of Liberal Arts is pleased to announce the training workshop on Research and Funding Collaborative Opportunities in the Higher Education Sector: Building Bridges for Sustainable Growth on November 20, 2024. The workshop aims to develop a common understanding of SLA faculty for attaining funded projects. We will build this interactive event around a couple of presentations from HEC-approved trainers to further explore the best practices that align with the FISCA Plan.

The Center for Languages conducted a three-day teacher training workshop on “Communication Skills” for 106 teachers from the Police Grammar Schools from all over Pakistan. The workshop was held from July 30 to August 1, 2024 and was led by Ms. Naheed Ashfaq Qureshi, Ms. Sadaf Iftikhar, and Ms. Amnah Moghees. Prof. Abid Sherwani, Chief Advisor on Innovation and Director ORIC, and Dr. Nadia Anwar, Dean SLA, participated in the opening and closing ceremonies as chief guests.

360 Degree Transformation Program

UMT proudly welcomed its newly admitted students to the 4-week 360º Transformation Program, running from September 10 to October 4, 2024. The SLA Facilitators Ms. Naheed Ashfaq Qureshi, Ms. Mehak Munir, Ms. Amnah Moghees, and Ms. Sadia Noreen led engaging sessions that introduced students to university life through a variety of activities and a comprehensive orientation to UMT.

This immersive and interactive program is designed to support the Fall 2024 intake in their transition to university life, offering students an exciting opportunity to experience campus life firsthand before embarking on their academic journey.

Workshop on Effective Meeting Minutes

Ms. Sobia Ilyas, Head Center for Languages, conducted a workshop on "Effective Meeting Minutes" on Monday, September 30, 2024. The training offered a hands-on approach to mastering the art of note-taking in meetings. With real-world tips and engaging activities, participants learned how to capture important discussions and decisions with ease, making meetings more productive and ensuring everyone stays on the same page.