Brainstorming solutions: K-P to hold archaeology conference in August

Over 300 delegates from various countries likely to attend.

PESHAWAR: The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Directorate of Archaeology and Museums plans to organise an international conference on archaeology in the province in August.

Speaking to journalists at the directorate’s office in the city on Thursday, Director for Archaeology and Museums Dr Abdul Samad said the conference will be held from August 16 to August 18 at the Baragali campus of University of Peshawar. The event will be organised in collaboration with the varsity’s archaeology department.



“The conference aims to highlight the archaeological heritage of K-P,” he said. “Through this initiative, we will formulate a comprehensive strategy to preserve and conserve this heritage.”

Guest list

“Over 300 delegates from US, China, and Italy will participate in the three-day conference,” Samad said. “These will include renowned archaeologists and researchers. At least 50 research papers will be presented on the occasion.”

According to the director, arrangements for the conference have been made under the supervision of UoP Vice Chancellor Dr Rasool Jan, Chairman for Department of Archaeology Dr Mukhtar Durrani and conference coordinator Dr Zakarullah Jan.

Preserving heritage

“The protection of all archaeological treasure is a priority,” Samad said. “We must preserve our cultural and archaeological identity, and carry out more archaeological excavations in various parts of the province.”

Secretary for Tourism, Archaeology, Museums and Youth Affairs Azam Khan said the conference will provide a platform for participants to benefit from the experiences, insights and observations of other researchers.

“The conference will provide an opportunity to chalk out a plan to preserve and conserve archaeological sites across the province,” he added.

Samad added archaeological tourism should be promoted at national and international level.“The provincial government is eager to promote K-P’s rich archaeological heritage and culture,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 24^th, 2015.