Wajiha Qamar opens Quaid-e-Azam and Iqbal corners at National Book Foundation

 Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar has inaugurated the Quaid-e-Azam Corner and Iqbal Corner at the National Book Foundation in Islamabad.

ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar has inaugurated the Quaid-e-Azam Corner and Iqbal Corner at the National Book Foundation in Islamabad.

During her visit to the institution, Wajiha Qamar said the initiative was part of efforts to commemorate the 150th birth anniversaries of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal through nationwide celebrations.

She said the newly established knowledge corners would help introduce the ideas, philosophies and contributions of Pakistan’s founding leaders to younger generations. Such initiatives, she added could play an important role in highlighting the country’s national heritage and intellectual traditions.

The minister was accompanied by National Book Foundation Secretary Dr Khan Farhan Rifat and Director Murad Ali Mehmood. During her visit, she toured the National Book Museum the Indonesian Corner and different sections of the institution.

Wajiha Qamar also viewed rare and valuable books, historic Quranic manuscripts and creative artworks preserved at the National Book Museum. She described these collections as an important part of Pakistan’s intellectual literary and cultural heritage.

She took particular interest in the Quran Corner, Sufi Corner and exhibitions featuring prominent poets and writers. The minister said such collections could encourage young people to develop an interest in reading, research and learning while strengthening their connection with Pakistan’s intellectual and cultural traditions.

National Book Foundation Managing Director Dr Kamran Jahangir also briefed the minister on the new national curriculum, which is expected to be implemented from March 2027.

The briefing covered the development and preparation of textbooks, improving textbook quality cooperation with Pakistani publishers, publication of high-quality books and the provision of effective educational and intellectual material to students.

During the briefing, participants emphasized that academic quality, research and students’ intellectual needs should remain central to textbook development. The objective is to promote reading habits, research skills and a stronger connection with the country’s educational and cultural heritage.

Wajiha Qamar expressed particular interest in the foundation’s efforts to publish quality books, promote literary activities and preserve Pakistan’s intellectual heritage.

She assured the National Book Foundation of the government’s continued support and cooperation in its efforts to promote reading, education, literature and cultural awareness among young people.