3-day children’s literature moot concludes
Zubair Qureshi
The 3-day international conference titled “Children’s Literature: Past, Present and Future” concluded with a pledge by the writers, participants—–both grownups and children—-that they would befriend books and devote some of their time daily to book reading.
During various segments of the children’s literature conference, a number of interactive sessions, seminars and debates took place such as well known writers and poets spent time with children sharing with them their childhood days when books ued to be their the most sought after, dearest friends.
They also read out stories to them. The participants debated over the importance of translations from world literature for children, children’s literature in other languages and its impact on Pakistani society, and possible measures to promote creativity among children.
The conference was organized by the Pakistan academy of Letters (PAL) in collaboration with Daira Illm-o-Adab Pakistan and eminent literary figures participated and held discussions on various topics including children’s literature in Pakistani languages, digital era and children literature, children’s interests and future possibilities.
At the closing ceremony, Secretary National Heritage & Culture Fareena Mazhar was the chief guest while Dr Fatima Hassan and Asghar Nadeem Sayyid were the guests of honour.
While addressing the ceremony as chief Guest, Fareena Mazhar congratulated the chairman PAL Chairman Pakistan Academy of Letters Dr. Yousuf Khushk, Director Asim Butt PAL team and the writers associated with children’s literature for the successful organization of the conference.
I am convinced in the last three days, the distinguished literary participants who have come not only from all parts of the country but also from all over the world must have held very useful, interactive sessions with children and imbibed in them love for books and a craving for story reading, said Fareena Mazhar while commending the PAL and Daira Illm-o-Adab. Asghar Nadeem Sayyid expressed his delight at the overwhelming number of participants, particularly the young readers during the three-day literary event.
“I have attended a large number of literary conferences but participating in this international moot for children is an honour for me as I met future writers and poets here, he said.
He shared with the audience that as a child he had subscribed three children’s magazines and his first writing addressed children. A child’s truth is pure and without any shades or layers, he said.
Asghar also congratulated Dr Khushk for organizing a meaningful literary event.
Dr Fatima Hassan also took the audience down her memory lane and held that during the three days, she felt as if she were passing through her childhood days.
While expressing his gratitude to the audience, PAL Chairman Dr Yousuf Khushk said we are passing through interesting times and it was the need of the time that we should understand children’s mind and inspire them so that they could come close to books and find it a best company instead of tabs or other electronic gadgets.
He thanked all the participants particularly Secretary Fareena Mazhar and delegates from other provinces and the rest of the world to make the event successful.
