Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ruled out any plan to close or fuse national institutions dedicated to science, literature, history and culture, stating that such organizations form an essential part of the intellectual inheritance and civilization of the country.
According to a press release issued by the Prime Minister’s office, the Premier reaffirmed his government’s commitment to preserve and strengthen these institutions, amid increasing concerns about possible rights measures.
He made these comments during a meeting with Senator Irfan Siddiqui, leader of the Parliamentary Party of the Pakistan-Nawaz Muslim League (PML-N) in the Senate, which transmitted the anxiety of the literary and academic community for the possible complaint or dissolution of key cultural bodies. “The sources of knowledge and literature are the soul of society,” said the prime minister.
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“We have a rich civilizational and cultural capital, of which the entire nation is just proud. There is no proposal under consideration to close or fuse institutions of scientific, literary, historical or cultural importance. On the contrary, efforts will be made for these bodies to be more effective and efficient.”
Siddiqui, who has long been associated with the country’s literary circles, urged the prime minister to protect the legacy of such institutions. He recalled the emphasis placed on academic and cultural development during the previous mandate of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, when several initiatives were launched to relive and support intellectual forums.
In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz stressed the role of such institutions in raising critical thinking and human values. “Societies that neglect science, literature and arts fall prey to mechanical thought and lose subtle human emotions,” he said.
He also announced the formation of a dedicated committee to review the operation of these institutions and recommend reforms aimed at aligning them with the requirements of the modern era.
Siddiqui welcomed the guarantees of the Prime Minister and expressed his gratitude for the government’s position in support of academic and cultural spaces.
