Minister Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar visits book stalls along with PU's VC Muhammad Ali and Registrar Ahmad Islam
Pakistan
230,000 Books Sold at Punjab University’s Three-Day Book Fair, Setting New Record
By Mian M. Moeez | Correspondent2 min read
LAHORE: 230,000 books were sold at Pakistan’s largest three-day book fair, organised by Punjab University (PU), setting a new record in the event’s history. The fair attracted thousands of visitors from across the country, including students, teachers, academics, politicians, civil servants, lawyers, poets, writers and families.
Punjab Minister Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar inaugurated the book fair, saying that promoting reading habits among young people was the need of the hour. He observed that excessive screen use in the digital age made sustained attention increasingly difficult, while books encouraged focused and in-depth reading.
He said that although modern technology and artificial intelligence offered numerous benefits, they also presented challenges. Such educational activities, he added, could help strengthen the intellectual and academic capabilities of young people.
PU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali said the fair aimed to cultivate a love of reading among the younger generation. He described books as a vital source of knowledge and a means of promoting positive values in society, urging other universities to organise similar activities. He said more than 114 stalls were set up, offering books on a wide range of subjects by renowned publishers from across Pakistan at discounted prices to facilitate students, teachers and other readers.
The fair also featured literary activities, including a literary festival, book launches and poetry recitals. Special stalls showcasing student startups and innovative ideas were another attraction. Appreciating these initiatives, the minister stressed the need for universities to promote creativity, entrepreneurship and practical skills alongside formal education.
On the final day, the vice-chancellor congratulated faculty members, students, employees and organisers for the successful and peaceful conduct of the event. Visitors also appreciated the university administration for organising the book fair.
Punjab Minister Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar inaugurated the book fair, saying that promoting reading habits among young people was the need of the hour. He observed that excessive screen use in the digital age made sustained attention increasingly difficult, while books encouraged focused and in-depth reading.
He said that although modern technology and artificial intelligence offered numerous benefits, they also presented challenges. Such educational activities, he added, could help strengthen the intellectual and academic capabilities of young people.
PU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali said the fair aimed to cultivate a love of reading among the younger generation. He described books as a vital source of knowledge and a means of promoting positive values in society, urging other universities to organise similar activities. He said more than 114 stalls were set up, offering books on a wide range of subjects by renowned publishers from across Pakistan at discounted prices to facilitate students, teachers and other readers.
The fair also featured literary activities, including a literary festival, book launches and poetry recitals. Special stalls showcasing student startups and innovative ideas were another attraction. Appreciating these initiatives, the minister stressed the need for universities to promote creativity, entrepreneurship and practical skills alongside formal education.
On the final day, the vice-chancellor congratulated faculty members, students, employees and organisers for the successful and peaceful conduct of the event. Visitors also appreciated the university administration for organising the book fair.
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