Institutions under Pakistan’s Ministry of National Heritage and Culture provided a detailed briefing to the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture, highlighting recent initiatives to promote cultural awareness, youth engagement, and literary activities across the country.
During the meeting, which was chaired by committee head Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar, participants included Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Secretary Asad Rehman Gilani, and heads of various affiliated institutions. Some officials from Karachi and Lahore joined the session via video link.
One of the key announcements was the upcoming folk festival to be held at Lok Virsa in the second week of November. Dr. Waqas, Executive Director of Lok Virsa, explained that such events are designed to engage young people and the public with their cultural roots, fostering a deeper connection to Pakistani heritage.
Participants also learned that Pakistani artists are increasingly being featured on international platforms. Not only are their works being sent abroad, but dedicated Pakistan pavilions are being set up at global exhibitions to enhance the country’s image. A recent example was the “Manzar Exhibition” in Qatar, where performances by Pakistani dancers received special recognition.
Emphasizing the importance of arts and literature for children, Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar called for more programs that link school students with creative activities. This proposal was welcomed by the federal minister. Dr. Najeeba Arif, head of the Pakistan Academy of Letters, noted that the institution publishes magazines in various languages, has established a literary museum, and conducts programs to connect youth with literature.
The meeting also included a briefing on Iqbal Studies. Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khichi shared that Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, had allocated a significant budget in 1948 to promote the ideas of Allama Iqbal. The head of the Iqbal Academy discussed ongoing efforts to familiarize young people with Iqbal’s philosophies.
Minister Khichi described the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture as representing the true face of Pakistan, thanking the Prime Minister for suspending downsizing plans. This, he said, will enable institutions to perform more effectively and alleviate concerns about job cuts. He stressed the importance of proving the ministry’s value through its work.
Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar assured full cooperation with the ministry to foster cultural development and youth engagement. She emphasized that all relevant institutions should attend committee meetings fully prepared to ensure meaningful progress.
