LAHORE: (Monday, February 09, 2026): Punjab University Oriental College in collaboration with the Embassy of Hungary in Islamabad, organized a scholarly symposium titled “Scholarly Contributions of Sir Mark Aurel Stein (1862–1943)” on Monday. The event paid tribute to the life and academic legacy of the renowned scholar, explorer, and archaeologist Sir Mark Aurel Stein. The event was graced by His Excellency Dr. Zoltán Varga, Ambassador of Hungary, as the Guest of Honour while PU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Ali, VC University of Mianwali Prof Dr Nadeem Sheikh, Pro-VC Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood, Dean Faculty of Oriental Learning Prof Dr Muhammad Kamran, Principal Oriental College Dr Nabila Rehman, Registrar Dr Ahmad Islam, faculty members and a large number of students were present. In his address, His Excellency Dr Zoltán Varga admired the historic beauty, academic heritage, and cultural legacy of the Oriental College, calling it a symbol of shared scholarly values between Pakistan and Hungary. He also appreciated PU for preserving and promoting the intellectual traditions represented by scholars such as Sir Mark Aurel Stein. PU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Ali delivered an insightful address highlighting Sir Mark Aurel Stein’s seminal contributions to Central Asian archaeology, ancient civilizations, and Oriental studies. He underscored Stein’s enduring relevance to contemporary scholarship and his role in strengthening intellectual bridges between East and West. Prof Dr Muhammad Kamran expressed his gratitude to the Embassy of Hungary, university leadership, scholars, and participants for their contributions to the successful organization of the event. He said that Sir Mark Aurel Stein was appointed Registrar of the University at the age of 25 in 1887 and principal of the Oriental College at the age of 26, and remained principal of the college from 1888 to 1899, which is a unique distinction. Dr Nabila Rehman shed light on the rich heritage and historic legacy of the Oriental College. He described it as a cradle of Oriental learning and a fitting venue to honor a scholar of Sir Mark Aurel Stein’s stature. On the occasion, His Excellency Dr Zoltán Varga and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali, along with faculty members, inaugurated the Archives Section of the Oriental College, marking an important step toward the preservation of rare scholarly material. Dr Nabila Rehman presented a copy of an original document written by Sir Mark Aurel Stein, highlighting the institution’s commitment to safeguarding its intellectual heritage. The symposium featured scholarly presentations and discussions by distinguished academics, shedding light on various dimensions of Sir Mark Aurel Stein’s research, explorations, and lasting impact on archaeology and Oriental studies. A tree-plantation ceremony was also held at the Oriental College premises, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Sir Mark Aurel Stein and the University of the Punjab’s commitment to environmental sustainability and academic growth.