In an era where the digital world dominates young minds, the importance of nurturing a love for books and stories among children has become more crucial than ever. At Women University Swabi, an event was held that aimed to inspire a shift toward reading, one page at a time.
The occasion was the launch of the much-anticipated book, “Ali aur Zahra ki Kahaniyan,” written by the Head of the Department of Journalism, A. Waseem Khattak. The book launch took place in the university’s conference hall, where a gathering of educators, literary enthusiasts, and students marked a celebration of storytelling and its enduring importance.
The event was presided over by Dr. Raeesa Bano, the Registrar of the university, whose address set the tone for the occasion. Dr. Bano spoke passionately about the critical role that children’s literature plays in shaping young minds. “In today’s fast-paced world, creating literature for children is becoming a rarity,” she said. “It is imperative to support and encourage writers who can provide quality content for the younger generation.” She added that books like ” Ali aur Zahra ki Kahaniyan” could be a valuable tool to divert children from screens and instill a habit of reading.
The remarks underscored the belief that good literature can be transformative, nurturing imagination and critical thinking.The launch also featured insightful discussions from various faculty members who celebrated the significance of children’s literature. Dr. Naqeeb Ahmad Jan took the audience on a journey through the history of children’s literature, elaborating on its importance and impact over time. His talk highlighted how storytelling has been an essential part of childhood across cultures, fostering empathy and creativity.
Dr. Manza’s review of the book provided a deeper perspective on its content and themes. “While this book is specifically designed for children,” she said, ” the stories within hold valuable lessons that resonate with adults as well.” Her words served as a testament to the universal appeal of A. Waseem Khattak’s work, showcasing how a well-crafted story can bridge generational gaps.
A. Waseem Khattak, known for his dedication to literature and writing, shared his personal journey and inspiration behind “Ali aur Zahra ki Kahaniyan.” He revealed that he had been writing since 1990 and had taken a long hiatus before returning to the realm of children’s literature. “This book is a result of that revival,” he said, with a gleam of pride. He acknowledged the support of the National Book Foundation, whose efforts, he noted, have significantly contributed to the promotion of children’s literature and the publication of more books. Khattak also shared plans for future publications, revealing that he intends to release three more books for children soon.
The book, “Ali aur Zahra ki Kahaniyan,” was written for children aged four to ten, promising an engaging and educational experience.The event concluded on a note of gratitude, as A. Waseem Khattak extended his thanks to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Mian Syed, for permitting the event and supporting the cause of children’s literature. The attendees expressed their appreciation for Khattak’s dedication, lauding “Ali aur Zahra ki Kahaniyan” as a positive and necessary addition to the world of children’s books.
In a world where technology often overshadows traditional storytelling, the launch of “Ali aur Zahra ki Kahaniyan” serves as a reminder of the magic that stories bring into the lives of children.
With such initiatives, the hope is to inspire a new generation to pick up a book, read, and imagine a world beyond screens—one story at a time.
