On March 20, 2025, National Institute of Public Administration Lahore held a panel discussion on “Development of Arts & Literature and their Impact on Pakistani Society” for 37th SMC participants.  Prof. Dr. Asghar Nadeem Syed a renowned poet, playwright, novelist and teacher and Prof. Navid Shahzad an acclaimed director, writer and educationist, were the two panelists who ably presented the case for the development of arts and literature in Pakistan.

Prof. Navid Shahzad spoke first and elaborated on the historical context of art in Pakistan, she referred to pre-historic civilizations such as Gandhara and Mohenjo Daro that laid emphasis on art. She pointed out the role of language as an important marker of identity and shared her concern about regional languages of Pakistan such as Punjabi, Seraiki, Hindko taking a back seat, however she asserted that currently there is a revival of Urdu language in Pakistan.

Prof. Dr. Asghar Nadeem Syed extrapolated that societies needed literature and philosophy to survive and thrive. He highlighted that Pakistan has had renowned writers, poets, philosophers, thinkers, intellectuals and artists who paved the way for the development of contemporary Pakistani literature. Prof. Dr. Asghar Nadeem Syed explained that while the government may also promote the arts, it is mostly society itself that generates new ideas and discourse. He pointed out that music, art, dance, theatre and cinema grow and expand with growth in literature. He further said that a liberal environment, education, access to new technologies and a supportive social structure will go a long way in promoting national identity and harmony.

At the conclusion of the panel discussion Prof. Dr. Asghar Nadeem Syed and Prof. Navid Shahzad, both reiterated that in terms of art and literature, Pakistan has a rich and diverse heritage with room for growth and exploration.