Graduation Ceremony of Persian Language and Literature Students Held at Ismail Yusuf College, Mumbai

The graduation ceremony of the Bachelor’s Degree students of Persian Language and Literature at Ismail Yusuf College, Mumbai, was held on 2 April 2026 (13 Farvardin 1405) in the presence of faculty members, students, and enthusiasts of the Persian language. The ceremony was conducted in a warm and academic atmosphere, with speeches and expressions of appreciation from professors for the achievements of the graduating students.

During this academic session, five students of Persian Language and Literature successfully completed their Bachelor’s degree. Distinguished faculty members of the department, including Mr. Ashfaq Mortazavi and Ms. Shabnoor, along with other professors, attended the ceremony. They congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to continue their academic journey.

Mr. Ashfaq Mortazavi expressed hope that the graduates would pursue higher studies at the postgraduate and doctoral levels and play an effective role in the revival, development, and promotion of Persian language and literature in Maharashtra and across India.

In India, undergraduate programmes generally consist of a three-year academic structure divided into six semesters. During this period, students participate in classroom learning, academic assignments, and semester examinations designed to enhance their subject knowledge and academic skills.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the efforts of the professors and the dedication of the students were appreciated. The participants expressed hope that this academic and cultural journey would continue with greater strength in the coming years.

Ismail Yusuf College: A Centre for Persian Studies in Mumbai

Ismail Yusuf College, established in 1930, is one of the oldest and reputed educational institutions in Mumbai. With its rich history in the fields of humanities and languages, the college has played an important role in the development of higher education in the region.

The presence of the Department of Persian Language and Literature at the college reflects the deep historical and cultural connections between India and Iran. Currently, Ismail Yusuf College is the only institution in Mumbai offering an undergraduate programme in Persian Language and Literature, giving it a unique position among educational centres in Western India and making it an important hub for Persian studies.

 “Comprehensive Report of Activities of the Persian Language Department (Academic Year 2025–2026)”

The report highlights a year full of educational and cultural activities aimed at improving students’ language skills and strengthening their connection with Persian literary and cultural heritage.

At the beginning of the academic year, on 29 September 2025, students of SYBA and TYBA, along with faculty members of the department, visited the Iran Culture House in Mumbai. During this visit, which was welcomed by the Consul General and Cultural Attaché of Iran, students were introduced to the cultural significance of Shams Tabrizi and Rumi (Mawlana). They were also informed about higher education opportunities and international scholarships, including the SAMFA examination. At the end of the visit, educational and cultural materials were presented to the students as souvenirs.

To strengthen academic foundations, the department conducted special remedial classes during July and August 2025, focusing on improving grammar skills and preparing students for examinations.

To enhance speaking and communication abilities, specialised sessions on “Conversation Skills” were organized in February 2026, along with story-reading sessions, which helped students improve their confidence in speaking Persian and understanding classical texts.

The literary dimension of the department’s activities was reflected through the “Poetry Reading Programme”, where students practiced creative expression and recitation of Persian poetry.

Furthermore, the “Iranology Programme” held in December 2025 provided students with an opportunity to gain deeper knowledge about the history and civilization of Iran through academic lectures.

Recognizing the importance of communication with families, the department organized meetings with parents in September 2025 and January 2026 to discuss students’ academic progress, discipline, and future career opportunities.

Overall, these activities not only enhanced the quality of Persian language education but also created a vibrant academic and cultural environment among students and faculty members.

The Department of Persian Language and Literature at Ismail Yusuf College continues to serve as an important centre for preserving, teaching, and promoting the Persian language and its rich literary heritage in Mumbai.Website :  https://www.ismailyusufcollege.ac.in/