LAHORE Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Mujahid Kamran has stated that all religions have descended upon mankind from the Almighty, hence we can further strengthen international peace and brotherhood through promotion of harmony and teaching of ancient religious languages like Hebrew and Arabic. He was addressing a ceremony held to distribute diplomas and awards to students who have completed one-year course in Hebrew language at Cathedral Church here on Saturday. Bishop of Lahore Dr Alexander John Malik presided over the ceremony while Principal Oriental College Prof Dr Syed Mazhar Moeen also spoke at the function. Dr Mujahid Kamran said for the first time in the history of Punjab varsity, teaching of the oldest religious language Hebrew had been initiated by the incumbent administration. From linguistic and research perspective and in order to directly understand true meanings of religious languages, it is imperative to advance their teaching at all levels amongst the student community. In recognition of key importance of spreading knowledge and education languages, the PU has established the Institute of Languages in the Oriental College where currently teaching courses in 18 local and foreign popular languages, are being offered. He said existing diploma in Hebrew will be upgraded to a degree status while a separate full-fledged building will also be constructed to cater to the rapidly multiplying classroom needs of rising number of Institute students in the coming years. He also lauded the academic as well as research services rendered by Dr Mazhar Moeen as Principal Oriental College and paid rich tributes to him in acknowledgement of his contribution. In his presidential address, Dr Alexander John Malik congratulated Dr Kamran for making pioneering efforts to start a diploma course in Hebrew language in varsity and added that launching of this course was not possible without liberal financial assistance and keen personal interest of the Vice-Chancellor. He said in the present age of globalization no nation can achieve socio-economic superiority without spreading the light of education among its people. Later Dr Kamran and Dr Malik gave away diplomas and awards to students who had successfully completed one-year Hebrew language course. Principal Oriental College Dr Mazhar Moeen also addressed the audience.