PESHAWAR, Dec 4: Declamation contests and debates at educational institutions remove shyness and raise level of confidence of students. English is the major language that can help the youth to get connected to the whole world and make their access easier to knowledge in all spheres of life.

These views were expressed by Prof Kalimullah, vice-principal of Edwardes College, Peshawar, while speaking as chief guest at a declamation contest held at Islamia College University here on Tuesday.

He, however, regretted that most teachers and educational institutions did not take pains to train students in extracurricular activities, while parents too were not interested in such healthy activities of their wards which, he said, lowered confidence level and eclipsed latent talent in them.

“Such important and positive activities have come to a standstill these days due to which students remain under extreme stress and their mental capabilities become feeble with no practical experience in life. Speech, quiz competitions and other literary activities arouse interest of students and fire their imagination,” Prof Kalim observed.

He said that the Islamia College had a tradition to encourage young students to develop leadership qualities in them and as such produced great men and women in its century-old history.

In his welcome address, Prof Atiqur Rehman said that unfortunately students hesitated to take part in literary and sports activities and sometimes got involved in unhealthy activities. He said the Islamia College University ICUP offered an open chance to its students to participate and show their hidden talent.

“You should not hesitate to express yourselves in a positive manner. This will help you build your self-image,” he advised the students.

The Islamic College University Peshawar (ICUP) arranged an annual English Day under the auspices of its Literary and Debating Society. An interesting English declamation titled ‘past glory does not make a future story’, a quiz on the history of English literature and an English poetry contest was held among students of various levels.

Prof Abdul Salam Khalis, Dean of Languages and Literature ICUP, presided over the function. He said that getting command over English would make students intelligent, adding that with effective communication skills one could take on modern day challenges.

Noted writer Sher Alam Shinwari was the guest of honour. Abaseen Yousafzai, the chief organiser, presented souvenirs and gifts to the guests.

Prof Lubna, Prof Gulalai Tajuddin, Prof Sanaullah, Malaika Noor and Prof Falak Naz served as judges for different items.

Mujeebur Rehman, Umar Khalid, and Haris Iftikhar grabbed first, second and third position in English declamation contest, while Aiman Ibrar got first, Kashif Shah Wijdaan second and Mujeebur Rehman and Ibadullah shared third position in English poetry contest. Kalimullah was given special prize at the event.