THE FACULTY OF ORIENTAL STUDIES HOSTED THE ANNUAL LITERARY AND POETRY EVENT “IQBAL READINGS"

On 17–18 November 2025, the Faculty of Oriental Studies at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University hosted a literary and poetry event titled “Iqbal Poetry Readings”, dedicated to the national poet of Pakistan, Muhammad Iqbal. The main purpose of the event was to promote cultural heritage, strengthen friendly ties between the two countries, and encourage students to explore Eastern literature and philosophy.

On the first day of the program, a joint ZOOM conference was held with the Faculty of Languages at the National University of Modern Languages (NUML), Pakistan. The session opened with welcoming remarks by the Dean of the Faculty of Oriental Studies, Ms. M.Sh. Egamberdiyeva, who emphasized the importance of fostering cultural connections between Kazakh and Pakistani students.

During the meeting, students from the Urdu departments of both universities recited Muhammad Iqbal’s poetry and shared their reflections on his works. Students of the Faculty of Oriental Studies — Makanov Alikhan, Abduldayeva Aruzhan, Nurlyan Aibike, and Yrysbai Abilai — performed expressive readings of Iqbal’s classical nazms. Pakistani students also provided interpretations of the poet’s work. The session concluded with an exchange of warm wishes, followed by a milli naghma musical performance by Nurlan Aibike.

On the second day, the event continued at the Muhammad Ali Jinnah Center of the Faculty of Oriental Studies. Pakistani students from Asfendiyarov Medical University and students of the Urdu Department at KazNU took part in a poetry reading and discussion dedicated to Iqbal’s literary heritage. It was noted that such cultural gatherings contribute to the creative development of young people and enhance public cultural awareness.

At the end of the event, the Dean of the Faculty presented certificates to the most active participants and expressed gratitude to all attendees.