Urdu short stories: Impact of social media discussed

experts discussed the themes and impact of social media on the urdu language

A two-day workshop on “Impact of Social Media on Urdu Short Story” commenced on Monday at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) where experts discussed the historical background of Urdu short stories, writing techniques, themes and impact of social media on the language.

The workshop is being jointly organised by IIUI’s Department of Urdu (Female) and University of Erfurt, Germany. On the first day, speakers including Mrs Bushra Malik from Erfurt university, IIUI Urdu Department Head Najiba Arif, Dr Sanahat Mushtaq, Dr Humaira Ashfaq, Summaya Shad and Shadab delivered lectures on various topics.

“Social media can be a source of meaningful change in society as it is the most vital way to disseminate voices for any objective” said Malik, who teaches Urdu in Germany and also heads the Young Women Writers Forum of Pakistan. She further said that societies which face dissociation from literature ultimately lose their social values. She also discussed the Egyptian revolution, role of social media in the Scotland referendum and its role in women empowerment. She stressed upon participants to deeply study classical literature in Urdu, saying it would be helpful for young writers to bring constructive literature in front of society.

Earlier, Arif apprised participants regarding the aims of the workshop, saying it would be a great opportunity for creative students to broaden their exposure.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 14^th, 2014.