Islamabad:A delegation of male teachers from Danish School Islamabad, led by Jawaduddin, has visited the National Book Foundation (NBF) to select and purchase books for the school library and explore the country’s literary, historical and cultural heritage at the National Book Museum.
The delegation comprised Muhammad Muzammil, Muhammad Nauman Imtiaz, Muhammad Mudassir Khan, Muhammad Safdar Ali and Faheemullah Khan.
During the visit, the teachers reviewed a wide range of publications available at the NBF bookshop and purchased books suited to the educational needs, age groups and intellectual interests of students.
Their selection included translations of the Holy Quran, books on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), history, literature, philosophy, poetry, general knowledge, and engaging, informative and educational titles for children.
The teachers emphasized that a school library is not merely a resource for supporting classroom learning but also plays a vital role in students’ intellectual development, creativity and broadening of perspectives. They observed that access to a diverse range of books encourages children to ask questions, think critically, explore new ideas and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. They also highlighted the importance of making extracurricular reading an integral part of the educational experience.
The delegation appreciated the NBF’s efforts to make quality books on a variety of academic, literary and general-interest subjects available at affordable prices. The teachers noted that access to publications covering diverse fields of knowledge under one roof makes it easier for educational institutions to enrich their libraries and meet students’ varied learning needs.
They also commended the Foundation’s initiatives to improve access to books and foster a culture of reading.
The delegation subsequently visited the National Book Museum, where its members took a keen interest in the historical, educational, literary and cultural exhibits. They particularly appreciated the rare and historic Quranic manuscripts, exquisite examples of calligraphy, distinctive book models and dedicated sections showcasing Pakistan’s languages. The teachers also viewed the golden statues of prominent national and literary figures, including Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Muhammad Iqbal, Faiz Ahmed Faiz, Hafeez Jalandhari, Ahmad Nadeem Qasmi and Saadat Hasan Manto.
The visitors also explored miniature trucks and trains loaded with books, framed sacred Quranic pages, the Pillar of Autographs and other distinctive exhibits inspired by books and reading.
They observed that the National Book Museum presents the history and evolution of books, printing and publishing, along with the contributions of eminent literary and intellectual figures, in an engaging manner.
They added that such educational and cultural institutions can play an important role in connecting younger generations with their literary heritage and nurturing a lasting interest in reading.
The delegation appreciated the NBF’s administrative and publishing initiatives, as well as its broader educational and cultural activities.