Caretaker Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Emphasizes Youth Engagement in National Heritage Awareness

Islamabad - 8 December 2023 (Adnan Hameed) : Caretaker Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Jamal Shah, highlighted the significance of the youth as the largest demographic in Pakistan and a crucial asset to the nation during the "Pechan Pakistan" contest prize distribution ceremony. Addressing the event organized by the Community Development Council in collaboration with the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), Minister Jamal Shah stressed the importance of sensitizing the youth about national heroes and their contributions to the nation-building process. In attendance were notable figures including Nader Al-Turk, Deputy Head of the Palestine Embassy in Pakistan, Director General PNCA, Executive Director Lok Virsa, Director Hunerkada Amna Shah, President Community Development Council Meera Malik, Managing Director National Book Foundation Dr. Raja Mazhar Hameed, and a large number of students. Minister Jamal Shah outlined holistic measures to ensure educational and developmental opportunities for the younger generation. He announced the organization of mentorship programs connecting youth with senior artists to preserve and promote cultural heritage. Additionally, youth volunteer groups and forums will be formed to actively engage with relevant departments, fostering future leadership roles in promoting inclusivity. Highlighting the commitment to cultural and literary heritage, the Minister revealed plans for a talent hunt show aimed at showcasing the diverse talents of the youth. He also announced the rehabilitation of cultural infrastructure in Islamabad Capital Territory, transforming them into vibrant hubs of activity to stimulate the creative economy and generate employment opportunities for artists. Meera Malik, President of the Community Development Council, described "Pehchan Pakistan" as an inclusive contest designed to unleash the imagination and creative vision of young minds. She emphasized the vision of creating a platform that empowers the youth to express their imagination, promoting national integrity, and inspiring visionary leaders committed to shaping a prosperous and harmonious society. The event also witnessed student performances on Arabic songs in solidarity with the Palestinian brethren. Minister Jamal Shah concluded the ceremony by distributing prizes among the winning students of the essay writing contest.