Peshawar, 06-05-24 – The Mapping Archaeological Heritage in South Asia (MAHSA) Project, a significant initiative under the Macdonald Institute for Archaeological Research at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom, is making strides in the preservation and documentation of South Asia's rich cultural heritage. Dr. Rebecca Roberts, Project Coordinator, along with Ms. Afifa Khan, Research Assistant and Fieldwork Coordinator for Pakistan, addressed a gathering at the SSAQ Museum of Archaeology introducing the project.

Their presentation, titled "Introducing the Mapping Archaeological Heritage in South Asia Project," marked a pivotal moment in the collaborative efforts between the Department of Archaeology at the University of Peshawar and the University of Cambridge. An official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed, ensuring a combined effort towards preserving the historical and cultural landscapes of the region. Prof. Dr. Zakirullah Jan, a noted authority in the field, has been appointed as the focal person for this collaborative project.

The talk was attended by faculty members and students from the Archaeology and Tourism departments, including Dr. Muhammad Naeem Qazi, Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Humanities (FA&H), Dr. Ibrahim Shah, Dr. Zubaida Yousaf, Dr. Shakeel Khan, Dr. Asfandyar, Mr. Muhammad Waqar and Mr. Asim Amin. Discussions emphasized the importance of modern technologies and methodologies in archaeology, showcasing the latest tools and equipment for the documentation of heritage sites.

This partnership aims to enhance academic research and fieldwork methodologies, fostering a deeper understanding of South Asia’s archaeological landscape. By combining resources and expertise, both institutions hope to highlight and preserve the cultural narratives inherent within the region's archaeological sites.