Lahore: The Third International Punjabi Conference is set to begin in Lahore on Friday, drawing participants from across the globe to the bustling provincial capital. The three-day event, hosted at the Punjab Institute of Language, Art and Culture (PILAC), promises a rich tapestry of cultural and intellectual activities.

According to Radio Pakistan, the conference will feature a broad array of participants, including intellectuals, poets, artists, politicians, students, women, and children. Attendees will engage in a variety of activities such as debates, discussions, live performances, and singing competitions, all designed to celebrate and explore Punjabi culture.

A key focus of the conference will be on Punjab’s Indigenous Philosophy: The Legacy of Yogis, Sufis, and Gurus. This session aims to delve into the spiritual traditions and philosophies imparted by mystics and sages that have significantly shaped the metaphysical thought of Punjab.

In response to the pressing global issue of climate change, the conference will also address environmental challenges under the theme ‘Floods in Punjab: Devastation, Policy Response, and the Way Forward.’ Experts in the field will present analyses on environmental vulnerability, governance, and the strategies required for sustainable recovery.

Another significant session, titled Narrative of Language: Public and State Discourse on Punjabi as a Medium of Instruction, will gather policymakers, intellectuals, and educators to discuss the complexities and ideological debates surrounding mother-tongue education.

The conference will also highlight the contributions and potential of women in the region through a session focused on ‘Punjabi Woman’s Political Insight, Social Agency, and Economic Wisdom,’ underscoring the vital role women play in the socio-economic and political landscape of Punjab.