The National College of Arts in Lahore inaugurated the much anticipated NCA Triennale 2025 in a grand ceremony attended by artists, designers, musicians, researchers, diplomats, cultural experts, faculty and students from across Pakistan and abroad.
Federal Minister for Education Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui addressed the gathering and underlined the need to preserve Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage amid modern challenges. He said, “From ‘Kasb-e-Hilal’ to ‘Kasb-e-Kamal Kun’, every piece of art tells its own story; these creations symbolise creativity and the remarkable cultural legacy of the subcontinent.” The minister also announced that a new NCA campus will open in Karachi later this year to broaden access to arts and culture education nationwide.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Murtaza Jafri noted that the Triennale forms part of NCA’s 150 years of excellence and reiterated the institution’s role as a nucleus of creativity, art and cultural harmony. He emphasised the college’s mission to promote peace and social development through artistic expression and the arts.
Dr. Jafri added that the institution is building a unique legacy by preserving valuable archives and integrating modern technology so those resources can serve future generations. This year’s NCA Triennale features more than 200 national and international artists representing countries including Europe, China, Iran, the United Kingdom and Palestine.
The opening programme combined artistic performances and visual art exhibitions with international showcases. A musical performance by Ustad Hamid Ali Khan formed a memorable part of the evening, which also included a tree plantation followed by dinner. The Triennale theme “Kasb-e-Kamal Kun” draws inspiration from NCA’s historic motto Kasb-e-Kamal Kun ke Aziz-e-Jahan Shavi — “Strive for excellence to become beloved of the world” — reflecting a commitment to creativity and cultural diversity.
Participants praised NCA’s 150-year journey and described the Triennale 2025 as a significant milestone for promoting art and culture in Pakistan. With the announcement of the Karachi campus and a wide international presence, organisers said the NCA Triennale will strengthen arts education and cultural exchange across the country.
