A roundtable discussion on “Challenges to Area Study Centers – Way Forward through Academic Collaboration” was held at Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore, on December 11, 2023. Dr. Mukesh Kumar Khatwani, Director, Area Study Centre Far-East & South-East Asia, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Dr. Eram Muzaffar, Director, Pakistan Study Centre, University of Karachi, Prof. Dr. Naumana Kiren, Director Pakistan Study Centre, University of the Punjab attended the event as speakers.

Afterwards, the Director CSAS signed 3 MoUs, Area Study Centre Far-East Asia & South-East Asia, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan Study Centre, University of Karachi & Pakistan Study Centre, University of the Punjab, respectively. The MoUs aimed to strengthen academic linkages, research activities, sharing of resources, and participation in workshops, webinars, and seminars to achieve academic improvement.

The MoU ceremony was presided over by the Director CSAS. Following the signing of MoU, keynote speeches were delivered by the Directors of all Centers. They highlighted the significance of the collaboration and emphasized the potential impact on academic, research, and related activities. The speeches further underlined the shared goals and aspirations of the Centers and the potential for meaningful outcomes arising from this partnership.