https://twitter.com/home https://www.facebook.com/Shabbir.Hussain191By Shabbir Hussain
ISLAMABAD, Jul 1 (Alliance News): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to protecting and strengthening Pakistan’s national institutions dedicated to science, literature, history, and culture.
He categorically dismissed any speculation about the closure or merger of such institutions under the government’s rightsizing agenda.
During a meeting with Senator Irfan Siddiqui, Parliamentary Party Leader of the Pakistan Muslim League (N) in the Senate, the prime minister emphasized the vital role of these institutions in shaping the nation’s intellectual, cultural, and historical identity, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office.
“The sources of knowledge and literature are the soul of society,” said the premier. “We are proud of our rich heritage, culture, and civilization.
The government has no intention of shutting down or merging any national institutions of scientific, literary, historical, or cultural importance. On the contrary, our aim is to make them more robust, effective, and efficient.”
Senator Irfan Siddiqui, a veteran of Pakistan’s literary and academic circles, shared the concerns of scholars, poets, writers, and artists regarding the recommendations put forward by the Rightsizing Committee.
He reminded the prime minister of the significant attention given to these institutions during former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s previous tenure, which led to notable contributions from these bodies.
In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the value of these concerns and reiterated the importance of fostering intellectual and artistic growth in society.
“Nations that neglect their institutions of science, literature, and the arts risk becoming mechanical and emotionally detached,” he said.
To address this, the prime minister announced the formation of a new committee that will be tasked with improving the functioning, governance, and modernization of these institutions.
The committee’s goal will be to align their roles with contemporary needs while preserving their foundational purpose.
Senator Siddiqui welcomed the announcement and thanked the prime minister for his clarity and support, expressing hope that this decision would reassure the wider academic and cultural community.
Earlier in the day, the prime minister also met with MNA Ijaz-ul-Haq, who congratulated him on the successful approval of the federal budget for the fiscal year 2025–26.
The two leaders discussed development plans related to Ijaz-ul-Haq’s constituency and pledged to work together for the welfare of local communities.
