Punjabi varsity sets up centre in Malaysia

Patiala, October 15

Taking a significant step towards the promotion of Punjabi language and Sikh studies, the Punjabi University has established its first overseas study centre in Malaysia with the help of some families having alliance with the pre-Independence era of Ghadar movement. This Centre for Guru Granth Sahib Studies has been established adjacent to the University of Kuala Lumpur and will be officially inaugurated on November 28.

Punjabi University prof Dr Sarbinder Singh, Chairperson of Bhai Gurdas Chair, has been appointed the director of this centre. He will look after the entire academic work of this centre.

Dr Sabjinder Singh said this centre would offer two certificate courses in Gurumukhi Script and Guru Granth Sahib Studies and one advanced diploma course in Sikh Studies. “Initially, we will be enrolling 100 students from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, New Zealand and Australia, who are keen on studying Punjabi language and Sikh history and teachings of Sikh gurus.”

He said the centre would charge 500 US dollars as the registration fee for certificate courses apart from the examination fee. Also, Punjabi University will charge fee for providing academic and research material during these courses.

The centre, which will be financially managed by the families who have established it through their chief Paramjeet Singh, has signed an MoU with the Punjabi University through its Dean Academics AS Chawla. — TNS