AMRITSAR: On the occasion of International Mother Language Day, the second day of the World Punjabi Conference being organised at Guru Nanak Dev University witnessed a distinguished honour session presided over by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Karamjeet Singh.
The chief guest on the occasion was Prof. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University, while the keynote address was delivered by Prof. Sarabjinder Singh, Vice-Chancellor of the Sunny Oberoi Vivek Sadan: Futuristic University, Sri Anandpur Sahib.
In his presidential address, Prof. Karamjeet Singh emphasised that the university is preparing collaborations with leading global institutions to connect students with future technologies and to strengthen Punjabi on the global digital platform. He stated that, with the participation of the NRI community, plans are underway to sponsor IT and AI laboratories, introduce international certificate courses, and offer scholarships to students.
During the session, Prof. Karamjeet Singh’s book Meditation to Martyrdom: The Legacy of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji was formally released.
Dr. Manjinder Singh, Head of the School of Punjabi Studies, welcomed the guests and observed that there is an urgent need to connect the AI revolution with the Punjabi language, adding that the conference has emerged from this very necessity.
In his keynote address, Prof. Sarabjinder Singh underlined that the authenticity and ethical framework of Artificial Intelligence must be defined carefully, especially in relation to religion. He also assured full support towards the establishment of the AI Centre being set up at the university.
Speaking on the occasion, noted educationist S. Sukhhi Bath remarked that this is the world’s first conference focusing on AI in relation to Punjabi language and stressed that children’s literature should also be linked with emerging technologies. Renowned scientist Kanwarpal Singh Suri announced a contribution of ₹1 crore to support technological development at the university.
During the honour session, three eminent personalities who have brought global recognition to Punjab and Punjabi culture—Bhai Mohinder Singh (UK), Kanwarpal Singh Suri and Baldev Kang—were felicitated.
Providing details about the awardees, Dr. Manjinder Singh said Bhai Mohinder Singh, head of Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha, Birmingham, is internationally recognised for promoting Sikhism, interfaith dialogue and humanitarian service. Through gurdwara construction across Africa, Europe and India, along with Nishkam Healthcare Trust and Nishkam Schools, he has created a global model combining service with scientific management.