On Thursday, 12th March, 2026. National Institute of Public Administration Lahore held a panel discussion on “Development of Arts & Literature and their Impact on Pakistani Society” for the participants of 39th SMC. Prof. Dr. Asghar Nadeem Syed a renowned playwright and teacher and Prof. Sajida Haider Vandal an acclaimed architect and educationist, were the two panelists who discussed the development of arts and literature in Pakistan.
Prof. Dr. Asghar Nadeem Syed is currently Dean Faculty of Language and Literature, University of Lahore and previously taught at Government College and Beacon House National University. He was awarded with Pride of Performance by government of Pakistan, Ten years best Playwright PTV, Nigar Awards and many other such accolades.
Prof Sajida Haider Vandal is CEO of THAAP an NPO for preserving cultural heritage. She is also a professor of Architecture who has served as Principal, National College of Arts. She won the Sir Robert Mathew Award, Commonwealth Association of Architects, UK, and was recognized by France as an ‘Officer of Arts and Letters’ and is credited with many other awards.
Prof. Dr. Asghar Nadeem Syed highlighted that Pakistan has had renowned writers, poets, philosophers and artists who paved the way for the development of contemporary Pakistani literature, but today literature is not being given due regard. He pointed out that even in this age of Al; literature, art, theatre and cinema can thrive, in fact they have become more important so as to preserve original human thought.
Prof. Sajida Vandal elaborated upon the historical context of art in Pakistan, she referred to prehistoric civilizations such as Gandhara and Mohenjo Daro that laid emphasis on art. She discussed the great masters such as Chugtai, Shakir Ali and Sadequain. She also highlighted the works of contemporary artists such as Shazia Sikander and Lala Rukh.
At the conclusion of the panel discussion Prof. Dr. Asghar Nadeem Syed and Prof. Sajida Haider Vandal reiterated that societies only thrive when they encourage and inculcate interest in the and literature.