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Institute of English Studies

Located in the most urbanized part of Lahore amidst luxurious foliage, the Institute of English Studies at the University of the Punjab serves as a tranquil haven for academic and creative endeavors. The need for a Department of English was felt far back in 1932 on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of the University of the Punjab. Two British Professors: Dr. Oliver Elton and Dr. Daniel Jones visited Lahore with a specific purpose of creating interest in English Language and Literature. The University of the Punjab had the tradition of coordinating teaching resources available in different colleges of Punjab where English was being taught as a compulsory subject. In 1947, on the inception of a new nation, the state envisioned to establish teaching departments in the University to impart higher education.

The Department of English Language and Literature was founded in 1962. Prof. Siraj-Ud-Din was the founder and first head of the Department. Since then, the Department has upheld a long-standing commitment to academic excellence. The Department has always staffed academics with strong educational background and research profiles. In 2021, the Department was restructured and the status was raised to the Institute of English Studies. Professor Dr. Shamaila Dodhy was the first Director of the Institute.

Currently, the Institute is offering Literature in English and translations in English from around the world. The canvas stretches from Classical Studies to Post-human genre, Victorian to Post-modern, and distinguished British and American writings to South-Asian Literature. Also, Literature produced in native languages is introduced through notable translations. The Institute transforms the perception of budding scholars and motivates them to develop their own points of view.

National and International students are welcome to join creative endeavors and scholarly explorations being offered through creative-writing workshops and conferences. The teaching methods include combination of close and distant readings, seminars, and simulations supplemented by dramatic enactments and poetry reading competitions. Institute of English Studies is currently offering BS, MPhil and PhD programmes. The graduates of this department serve the nation in different capacities. Some are serving in bureaucracy, print and electronic industry, IT companies, and educational institutions.

MPhil & PhD Entry test paper pattern, 2026
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Vision, Mission Statement and Goals

VISION: Institute of English Studies envisions itself as vibrant and dynamic intellectual community that may excel in teaching and research. By providing a nurturing yet academically challenging environment it aims at developing a community of responsible, empathetic, intellectual, critical and creative individuals; thinkers equipped with enlightened perception of the world around them. The Institute aspires to:
1.	Achieve Academic Excellence: To be recognized for its advanced and innovative curriculum that challenges students and prepares them for a variety of careers.
2.	Promote Cutting-Edge Research: To support and produce groundbreaking research that contributes to the advancement of knowledge in Literature and Cultural Studies.
3.	Foster Interdisciplinary Collaboration: To encourage interdisciplinary approaches and partnerships that enriches the understanding of complex texts and cultural phenomena.
4.	Enhance Student Experience: To provide a supportive and stimulating learning environment that nurtures intellectual growth, creativity, and critical thinking skills of students.
MISSION STATEMENT: Institute of English Studies is dedicated to advancing the understanding and appreciation of English Literature, and Literature in English. We strive to foster academic excellence and innovation through rigorous research, dynamic teaching, and collaborative scholarship. Our mission is to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication skills in our students, preparing them for diverse careers and lifelong learning. We are committed to promoting cultural engagement, inclusivity, and a global perspective, enriching both the academic community and the society at large.
GOALS:
The Institute of English Studies fosters the following goals:
1.	Academic Brilliance: Promoting high standards in teaching, learning, and research in English literature, language, and allied fields.
2.	Research Advancement: Encouraging original and impactful research in English studies.
3.	Scholarly Collaboration: Facilitating collaboration among scholars, researchers, and students to enhance academic knowledge and intellectual understanding.
4.	Curriculum Development: Developing and updating curriculum to reflect on contemporary knowledge and research in English Studies.
5.	Student Development: Providing students with skills, knowledge, and critical thinking abilities needed for personal and professional growth.
6.	Cultural Engagement: Promoting an understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures through the study of English literature as well as Pakistani and South-Asian English Literature.
7.	Community Outreach: Engaging with the wider community through public lectures, workshops, seminars and conferences to promote lifelong learning.
8.	Provision of Resources: Offering access to extensive academic resources, including libraries, archives, digital databases, computers and free Wi-Fi.
9.	Interdisciplinary Approaches: Encouraging interdisciplinary studies and approaches to enrich understanding and analysis of literary texts.
10.	Global Perspectives: Fostering a global outlook by integrating international perspectives into teaching, learning and research.

SEMINARS/CONFERENCES/EVENTS HELD AT INSTITUTE OF ENGLISH STUDIES (2026-2022)
2026
1.	Seminar on “Digital Literacy to Digital Earning: Empowering Youth for the AI-Driven Freelance Economy" on 30.4.2026.
2.	SEMINAR: Open Mic: Voices of Literature — A Glimpse into the Event The IES Library came alive on 23.4.26 with creativity and expression as MPhil and PhD scholars gathered for Open Mic: Voices of Literature. The event beautifully highlighted the power of words through poetry recitations, compelling monologues, and engaging flash fiction readings.
3.	The Institute of English Studies was delighted to host a session on The Art of Creative Writing with Dr. Osama Siddique. The session brought together PhD and MPhil scholars along with a large number of BS students. The session created a space for discussion on creativity, craft, and the intellectual discipline behind creative writing on Feb 19, 2026.
4.	Students of MPhil program had the opportunity to participate in the PU Employment Expo 2026, held on Monday, 9th February 2026 at the Law College Ground, University of the Punjab. The event provided a dynamic platform for students to connect with diverse organizations, explore career prospects, engage in meaningful discussions with industry professionals, and confidently present their CVs.
5.	PhD scholar, Sarah Abdullah, conducted a research seminar at IES on 4th Feb, 2026. The seminar was presided over by the Director, Prof. Dr. Shamaila Dodhy, PhD Coordinator, Prof. Dr. Rizwan Akhtar, and attended by the esteemed faculty members alongwith the research scholars of IES.
6.	The Institute of English Studies, University of the Punjab hosted an illuminating academic session on 29th January 2026, featuring Prof. Dr. Mahboob Hussain, Dean, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, and author of The Parliament of Pakistan: A History of Institution-Building and (Un)Democratic Practices, 1971–1977.
7.	Institute of English Studies proudly shares the academic participation of its students at the 2nd International Conference of Literature, Linguistics and Language, titled “The Second Coming of Humanities,” held on January 09, 2026 at UCP, Lahore.
8.	On 29.1.26, MPhil scholars of the Institute of English Studies presented papers at Govt Gulberg Graduate College for Women. Their research explored the sustainability of Pakistan’s indigenous cultural heritage, highlighting diverse expressions, from classical and folk dance forms such as Kathak, Giddha, and Bhangra to the evolution of truck art and contemporary digital platforms as means of preserving cultural identity.
9.	The Institute of English Studies organized a session on Professionalization and Career Building with Dr. Shahzeb Khan, Associate Professor at IES and the Director of Student Affairs, University of the Punjab on January 26, 2026.
2025
1.	IES organized an educational excursion to Shalimar Gardens on the 21st of November, 2025. The visit enabled students to engage with public in a constructive manner, observe the site’s architectural and cultural heritage and reflect on the significance of environmental cleanliness.
2.	The Institute of English Studies organized 'I Am Me Because...' on the 13th of November, ,2025. It was an engaging event that provided students a platform to showcase their talents and creativity. The program featured displays of calligraphy, sketching, painting, poetry, and short enactments, each reflecting the student's individuality and artistic expression.
3.	MPhil and PhD scholars from The Institute of English Studies attended the Seventh Annual Conference on Trends and Practices in the Social Sciences, held on the 13th of November, 2025 at the Lahore School of Economics.
4.	Institute of English Studies organized Indigenous Peoples' Day on the 9th of October, 2025. The event stood as a symbol of solidarity and harmony among all cultural identities of our nation.
5.	The Institute of English Studies, University of the Punjab, organized a career counselling seminar. The event aimed to provide students with a clearer vision of the professional pathways available to them and to inspire confidence in the diverse opportunities their degree can unlock on 19 September, 2026
6.	The Institute of English Studies hosted a seminar titled “From Seerat-e-Tayyaba to Quaid’s Vision: A Path to Strong Pakistan". Guest speaker Dr. Hammad Lakhvi, Dean of the Faculty of Islamic Studies on the 11 September, 2026
7.	The Institute of English Studies hosted a distinguished book launch event on the 15th of May 2025, celebrating the English translation of the acclaimed Urdu novel “Aur Chaand Surkh Ho Gaya” by Atiya Syed. The novel, now rendered into English as “And the Sky Turned Red”, was translated by esteemed former faculty member, Mrs. Iffat Saeed.
8.	Institute of English Studies on 28th February 2025 celebrated tradition and talent. From flavorful food stalls to entrepreneurial booths showcasing jewellery, bangles, handicrafts, and cultural artefacts, the event was a beautiful fusion of creativity and culture.
9.	The 23rd of January, 2025 marked a day of passion, fate, and unforgettable drama at Institute of English Studies. The English Dramatic Society of IES brought Federico García Lorca's play, “Blood Wedding” to life. The vibrant stage settings, costumes, and powerful acting made it a truly mesmerizing experience. The house enthusiastically lauded the performance.
2024
1.	Hosted “Digital Humanities Graduate Poster Exhibition” in collaboration with the Department of English, FCCU on the 15th of February 2024.
2.	A reading session was held by Christoph Peters and Hannah Dübgen in collaboration with Annemarie-Schimmel-Haus on February 26, 2024.
3.	A literary session titled "Creative Challenges for Young Pakistani Writers of English" with Saad Sibte Sultan was held featuring a reading from his novel The Double Crescent Sword on 3rd June 2024.
4.	Hosted the faculty and students from the University of Poonch, Rawlakot on the 20th of September, 2024.
5.	A Seminar titled "Rahmat ulil Alamin", featuring guest speaker Mr. Atif Waheed, on the 3rd of October 2024.
6.	Hosted an interactive session on "Demystifying the World of Publication" for BS first-year students on October 11, 2024.
7.	Informative literacy sessions were led by the librarian of IES on the usage of library resources.
8.	Organized orientation ceremony to welcome new batches of BS and ADP programs.
9.	Organized orientation program to introduce and acquaint the new MPhil students to the academic community.
10.	Organized a Book fair to foster love for reading and learning among students on 14 Nov, 2024.
11.	Character day transformed classic iconic heroes, modern icons and pop culture figures with creativity and flair, followed by an Enactment competition on December 12, 2024.
12.	Dr. Javaria Farooqui, Assistant Professor, Comsats University have had an interactive session on “Romance Fandom in 21st century Pakistan” December 18, 2024.
2023
1.	A Milad titled, “Mehfil-e-Hubb-e-Rasul Khatimun Nabiyeen Muhammad SAW” on 18th January 2023. Mr. Saad Rizvi honored IES as the Speaker and Dr. Muhammad Hammad Lakhvi as the event's Chief Guest.
2.	A webinar on “Mental Health” in collaboration with Aachol Foundation Bangladesh on February 2, 2023.
3.	A seminar on “Revival of Commitments with Pakistan” in collaboration with Fikr-e-Iqbal Forum, and Pakistan Studies Centre featuring Mr. Qayoum Nizami, Mr. Anwar Mahmood Khan, Dr Muhammad Jawwad, Prof. Syeda Rozy Rizvi and Engineer Abdul Waheed Khawaja as guest speakers on February 8, 2023.
4.	Hosted a successful book launch event for “Dreams Don't Die”, translated by Dr. Lubna Umar. The event featured a panel discussion with Dr. Shahid Siddiqui and closing remarks from Chief Guest Prof. Dr. Khalid Mahmood on November 21, 2023.
5.	A seminar on “Like a Sparrow’s Best: Balancing Preservations with Renewal in South Asia Islamic Spaces” featuring Dr. Walter N. Hakala, SUNY (USA) on 30th November 2023.
2022
1.	The art-based Digital Display “The Wolf Talks” was curated by Dr. Nico Carpentier in collaboration with AMCAP on 8th February 2022.
2.	Hosted an International Training Workshop in collaboration with LLL and OUP for PhD Supervisors on 25th and 26th of March 2022.
3.	English Dramatics Society (EDS) presented baroque adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice on 22nd April 2022.
4.	Organized Book Talk session with the team of Ms. Zeeshan Zia Raja on 24th May 2022.
5.	Organized an enactment on “Maa Boliyan: All Languages Are Prestigious” to celebrate the diversity of languages on 1st June 2022,
6.	Flood relief appeal and donations drive was organized from August 30, 2022 to September 6, 2022.
7.	A seminar on “Character Building in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” featuring Dr Rasheed Arshad as Guest Speaker on 7th September 2022.
8.	A seminar on “How to Convert an Ordinary Incident into an Entertaining Drama” in the presence of guest speaker Mr. Shahid Mahmood Nadeem on 28th September 2022.
9.	E-Commerce workshop was co-arranged by ELS and SkillZone on 12th October, 2022.
10.	A seminar on Seerat-un-Nabi was arranged at IES on 20th October, 2022.
11.	An interactive session with Professor Dr Amritjit Singh, in which he shared valuable insights about the Harlem Renaissance on 27th October 2022.
12.	IES continued its Book Talk Series with Panel Discussion featuring Dr Shafaat Yar Khan, Dr Javeria Farooqui, Dr Faraz Anjum, and Dr Shahid Imtiaz on his book Amorphous Lahore on 17th November 2022.
13.	IES held a session “The World of Stories and Storytellers: In Conversation with Kanza Javed” on 14th December 2022.
14.	Vancouver-based author and poet, Tariq Malik, was invited to introduce his book Exit Wounds on 21st December, 2022.
15.	Organized a webinar with Dr. Michele Ware, North Carolina Central University, USA on “The American Short Story Tradition”.
16.	A seminar was conducted on Digital Responsibility and Cyber Harassment with Ms. Nida Usman Chaudhry, founder of “Women in Law” as the guest speaker.

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