PESHAWAR: The fifth edition of weeklong Dosti Peshawar Literature Festival (DPLF) concluded here on Sunday with lively spirit as organisers and volunteers pledged to continue their unwavering efforts for unlocking potential of youth to work for the welfare of society and the country at large.

The closing ceremony of DPFL was arranged at the main hall of Brains Institute wherein organisers and participants of the event pledged to carry forward the legacy of celebrating linguistic and cultural diversity through meaningful dialogue and variety of events rooted in promoting the cause of peace, progress and prosperity.

Ejaz Khan, Aslam Mir and Prof Syed Hanif Rasool Kakakhel, the organisers of the festival, presented a vote of thanks to all the volunteers, sponsoring bodies and individuals, who helped to make the event a great success.

They said that the event proved a milestone in attracting vibrant youth, children, entrepreneurs and experts, who shared their vision, ideas and spirit to do something different and unique for the country.

More than 100 literary and cultural sessions, panel discussions, book launches, theatrical performances, art exhibitions and author talks enriched the literary landscape of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The magic of storytelling and creative expression kept the young participants engaged in healthy activities over the last week.

The festival widened its scope through its feature events in other districts of the province including Karak, Dera Ismail Khan and Swat.

Literati, intellectuals, scholars and experts highlighted contemporary issues and worldview and stressed the need for creating space to come up with innovative ideas and concepts that should help to shape up society for future challenges.

Different sessions touched upon contemporary themes like social, climate dangers, investment in youth and rights of children, minorities, tolerance, women empowerment and policy and governance.

The fifth edition of DPFL witnessed an overwhelming participation of youth in all events, taking keen interest in every single topic and raising questions regarding future of the country, role of political leaders, educators and intellectuals alongside institutions governing their lives.

Published in Dawn, February 16th, 2026