Visually-Impaired Version 
Maqsut Narikbayev University (MNU) is proud to host a guest lecture by Dr. Abhimanyu Sharma from the University of Cambridge. He will speak on the impact of language policy on international relations, societal development, conflict dynamics, and peacebuilding processes. The lecture is scheduled for April 15, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. in the MNU Conference Hall.
Dr. Abhimanyu Sharma holds a PhD and completed his doctoral dissertation on the European Union’s language policy in India. His lecture, titled “Language Policy: Development and Inclusion,” will highlight how language can serve as both a tool for societal integration and a source of division. The speaker will examine two key aspects of language policy.
The first aspect focuses on the role of the English language in developing nations, with India as a case study. As the language of former colonial rule, English continues to spark debate: education in native languages fosters cultural identity and enhances academic outcomes, whereas English proficiency broadens access to global career and educational opportunities. Dr. Sharma will explore strategies for crafting a balanced language policy that supports inclusive and sustainable societal development. The second aspect addresses language inclusion for deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) individuals. In countries such as India, access to sign language education remains limited, hindering social integration and professional advancement. The speaker will outline the key challenges and propose actionable solutions aimed at ensuring equal opportunities for all.
It is worth noting that this event is part of the Kapuscinski Lectures project, which is being held in Central Asia for the very first time. Maqsut Narikbayev University was granted the opportunity to host these lectures under a program supported by the UNDP and the European Commission. Participation is open via registration at the link.
