Pakistan Academy of Letters Concludes Second Inter-Provincial Residential Program for Writers in Islamabad
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: The Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL), under the National Heritage and Culture Division, successfully concluded the second ten-day inter-provincial residential program for writers on January 23, 2026, at the Sheikh Ayaz Conference Hall, Islamabad, with widespread literary acclaim and participation from prominent writers, poets, researchers, and intellectuals from across the country.
Senator Pervez Rashid, addressing the closing session, emphasized that “the elimination of social discrimination is only possible through literature and books, while technology plays a crucial role in promoting literature.” He highlighted that writers and poets can foster tolerance, harmony, and human values in society through their intellectual and creative expression. Senator Rashid also stressed the urgent need to leverage technology and social media to broaden the reach and impact of literature, recommending that PAL’s literary events and scholarly sessions be broadcast online to engage younger generations and writers from remote areas.
Renowned poet Kishwar Naheed, presiding over the session, underlined the importance of meaning, intellectual depth, and social truth in literature, stating that literature rooted in societal realities shapes public consciousness. Jabbar Mirza emphasized lifelong learning as a key to intellectual growth, while Saeed Akhtar Malik lauded the transparency, organization, and quality of the program. Imdaad Akash described the initiative as exemplary for fostering intellectual dialogue, national cohesion, and cultural harmony.
Dr. Najeeba Arif, Chairperson of PAL, highlighted her priority of bringing rural and regional literature into the national mainstream, acknowledging the intellectual and creative contributions of writers from remote areas. She also announced plans to organize an International Literary Conference in April 2026, which will host writers, poets, and intellectuals from around the world.
The closing session featured the recitation of the Holy Quran by Qari Abdul Shakoor, followed by Naat-e-Rasool ﷺ in Brahui language by Shehzad Sultan Baloch. The proceedings were conducted by Rahman Hafeez and attended by special guests including Dr. Maqsood Jafri, Jabbar Mirza, Imdaad Akash, and Saeed Akhtar Malik.
Participants from all four provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir were presented with publications and certificates of appreciation. The program was widely praised for providing literary training, creative exchange, and fostering connections among writers from diverse regions. Speakers and participants expressed the need to continue this initiative regularly, commending PAL for its significant contributions to promoting literature, intellectual dialogue, and cultural unity across Pakistan.
