LAHORE: (Wednesday, January 14, 2026): Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali has said that the film industry plays an important role in the promotion of culture, and that the objective of the ‘Dekho Film Festival’ is to nurture the creative abilities of students. He expressed these views while addressing the opening ceremony of the two-day ‘Dekho Film Festival’, jointly organized by the Punjab University Department of Film and Broadcasting and Alhamra Arts Council here on Wednesday. On this occasion, Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood, renowned film director Syed Noor, Chairperson Department of Film and Broadcasting Dr Lubna Zaheer, Executive Director Alhamra Muhammad Nawaz Gondal, prominent producer Shehzad Rafiq, well-known writer Amna Mufti, faculty members, and a large number of students were present. In his address, Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali said that film festivals provide students with valuable opportunities to learn from leading figures of the industry. He expressed gratitude to Syed Noor for offering free professional training to Punjab University students at his studio. He emphasized that the era of rote learning is over and that it is essential to develop practical skills among students. Syed Noor said that young people are about to usher in a new era in the film industry. He stated that film goes beyond life itself and represents a world of imagination. He encouraged students to engage in maximum practical work to promote professionalism among them. He added that the ‘Dekho Film Festival’ represents a culture of learning, bringing together youth and renowned personalities of the film industry. On the occasion, Syed Noor also announced free hands-on training for students using high-end cameras and lenses. Shehzad Rafiq said that the Pakistan Film Producers Association is providing a platform for young people so that they can become a driving force in the revival of the film industry. He announced arrangements for funding students’ film theses and uploading their creative work on digital platforms. He said that his association with PU is a matter of pride for him and thanked Dr Muhammad Ali for helping the institution overcome a stifling environment. Amna Mufti said that truth is the most important element in writing. She appreciated the department for organizing a successful activity to promote the film industry. Dr Lubna Zaheer said that the ‘Dekho Film Festival’ has proven to be an excellent platform for enhancing students’ creative abilities. She informed that 175 short films, documentaries, and music videos were received for the festival. She added that the ‘Dekho Film Festival’ will play an important role in nurturing Pakistan’s film and cinema industry. During the festival, students presented outstanding musical performances, while screenings of shortlisted short films and documentaries were also held. Panel discussions and seminars were organized as part of the event. The festival will continue today as well.