Building Capacity for Heritage Management - PIATR

Building Capacity for Heritage Management: ICOMOS Pakistan's Workshop at Lahore Fort

On June 3rd, 2023, the Lahore Fort served as the setting for a one-day workshop on the “Management of Cultural Heritage”, jointly organized by ICOMOS Pakistan, the Pakistan Institute of Archaeological Training and Research (PIATR), and the Directorate General of Archaeology, Government of Punjab. The event marked an important step in heritage capacity-building efforts, aiming to equip professionals, students, and officials with foundational knowledge and contemporary strategies for heritage conservation and site management.

This initiative was part of a broader effort by ICOMOS Pakistan to revitalize heritage discourse and technical training across the country. Having been reactivated in recent years after a long dormancy, the national committee of ICOMOS has focused on creating awareness, facilitating dialogue, and building institutional knowledge around cultural heritage issues.

A Collaborative Training Platform

The workshop brought together a diverse group of participants at PIATR, the archeological training and research institute located within Lahore Fort itself. Established in 1988, PIATR had served as a hub for training staff from archaeological departments, particularly in fields where academic opportunities remain limited—such as built heritage conservation and heritage site management, though of late, the PIATR had become dormant over the years.

Expert-Led Sessions

The day-long program included a series of lectures and discussions led by respected experts in the field:

• Usman Sami, conservation architect and educator, opened with an introduction to conservation principles.

• Dr. Saima Gulzar provided clarity on key definitions and terminology in cultural heritage.

• Shajeea Shuja offered insights into international charters and operational guidelines that shape global best practices.

• Saba Samee conducted a session on management systems

• Maria Gulraize Khan presented issues relating to tourism, monitoring, and visitor impact, and

• Aisha Khan addressed the Walled City of Lahore Authority's (WCLA) conservation initiatives.

• The role of community participation in the conservation and development of World Heritage Sites was also a central theme, emphasizing inclusive approaches that bridge people with place.

Interactive Q&A sessions followed each presentation, fostering a dynamic learning environment. The workshop concluded with remarks from the Director General, Archeology - Tourism, Archaeology and Museums Department, underlining the Punjab government’s commitment to strengthening heritage infrastructure and education.

Looking Ahead

This workshop was envisioned as the first in a regular series of capacity-building events. By strengthening collaboration between government institutions, international bodies, and academic experts, ICOMOS Pakistan and PIATR aim to create a consistent platform for heritage education and training in Pakistan.