Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday ruled out any plans to close or merge national institutions devoted to science, literature, history, and culture, stating that such organisations form an essential part of the country’s intellectual and civilisational heritage.
According to a press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the premier reaffirmed his government’s commitment to preserving and strengthening these institutions, amid growing concerns over possible rightsizing measures.
He made these remarks during a meeting with Senator Irfan Siddiqui, Parliamentary Party Leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in the Senate, who conveyed the anxiety of the literary and academic community over the potential downgrading or dissolution of key cultural bodies. “The sources of knowledge and literature are the soul of society,” the prime minister was quoted as saying.
Read More: PTI to take loyalty oaths from lawmakers amid defection fears
“We possess a rich civilisational and cultural capital, of which the entire nation is justly proud. There is no proposal under consideration to close or merge institutions of scientific, literary, historical, or cultural significance. On the contrary, efforts will be made to make these bodies 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 tenure of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, when several initiatives were launched to revive and support intellectual forums.
In response, PM Shehbaz underlined the role of such institutions in nurturing critical thought and human values. “Societies that neglect science, literature and the arts fall prey to mechanical thinking and lose subtle human emotions,” he remarked.
He also announced the formation of a dedicated committee to review the functioning of these institutions and recommend reforms aimed at aligning them with the requirements of the modern era.
Siddiqui welcomed the premier’s assurances and expressed gratitude for the government’s stance in support of academic and cultural spaces.
