‘Promotion of literature, book reading vital to peace, tolerance in society’

ISLAMABAD: Promotion of social sciences, literature and book reading are vital to promote peace and tolerance in the society.

It was stated by Professor Fateh Muhammad Malik renowned academician, writer and columnist who shared his life time experiences during a dialogue organised by Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) Alumni Association on Sunday.

The event was attended by senior members of QAU Alumni Association, QAU faculty and great number of students. Professor Fateh Muhammad Malik served as chairman National Language Authority, Rector International Islamic University Islamabad and Director Pakistan Institute of Pakistan Studies QAU Islamabad.

He said universities, being hub of learning, knowledge and training, should promote culture of dialogue and academic freedom to inculcate values of responsible citizenship, harmony, co-existence and respect for other ideologies among Pakistani youth.

Sharing the objectives of the dialogue, Secretary General QAU Alumni Association Murtaza Noor informed that in connection with 50 Years celebrations of Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad and 70th Independence Day celebrations of Pakistan, QAU Alumni Association has started interactions with senior QAU faculty members. In this regard, it was first interaction and exclusive evening which had been organized with Prof. Fateh Muhammad Malik.

President QAU Alumni Association, Sikandar Ahmed Rai while narrating his experience as student of Professor. Fateh Muhammad Malik, lauded his contribution for promotion of higher education, literature and especially critical thinking among university students.

Professor Fateh Malik narrated various incidents from his childhood till his professional life.He was of the view that teachers’ care, guidance and training play a pivotal role in grooming and success of any student. “An ideal teacher always considers his student as part of his family,” he said.

He said that the government should take care of the requirements of universities and should fulfil their growing needs through provision of funding because spending on higher education is not mere expenditure but a real investment in future which bear fruits for the nation.

He emphasised over teaching of literature and religious studies to all the university students. Well-equipped libraries need to be established even at university hostels to promote booking reading culture among students. The university libraries should be open for the students around the clock.

While narrating his teaching experience at QAU Islamabad, he said that realizing the importance of   social sciences for the society and country, many social sciences departments were established during ZA Bhutto regime. The graduates from these departments belonging to all regions of country, served at various important positions at national, regional and international levels. He was of the view that any differences should not lead towards violence.