LAHORE: The 98th Pakistan Learning Festival (PLF) commenced on Tuesday under the theme of peace and climate change sustainability, bringing together educators, policymakers, and cultural practitioners from across the country.

The twoday festival, cohosted by the Civil Services Academy, was inaugurated by MNA Shaista Pervaiz Malik and Farhan Aziz Khawaja, alongside leading literary figures and educationists.

In his opening remarks, Mr Khawaja noted that more than 75 sessions would be held, covering diverse themes and disciplines, while reiterating a shared vision of ensuring every child in Pakistan has access to education and the opportunity to thrive.

PLF founder Baela Raza Jamil underscored the urgency of equipping young learners with knowledge and values to navigate global challenges, stressing the importance of fostering a culture of peace.

Lightstone Publishers Managing Director Ameena Saiyid extended gratitude to key supporters including Lahore Grammar School, Right to Play, Sightsavers, TeleTaleem, Abacus, Oxford University Press, and several other partners.

The festival has also built strong collaborations with organisations such as Akhuwat, Alif Laila Book Bus Society, Deaf Reach, Science Fuse, Sanjan Nagar, National Book Foundation, and SOS Children’s Villages, ensuring grassroots voices remain central to its mission.

Addressing the audience, Ms Malik emphasised that education must remain uninterrupted even in times of crisis, describing it as the fundamental link connecting all Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The dayone sessions spanned creative writing, music, dance, storytelling, drama, sustainability, climate change, menstrual health management, and STEAM education. The discussions explored critical themes including language and decolonisation, learning in the age of artificial intelligence, climate action, and socialemotional learning.

Eminent experts such as Shahid Siddique, Dr Irfan Muzaffar, Dr Tayyaba Tamim, Abbas Rashid, Ameena Saiyid, Basarat Kazim, Dr Awais, Shazia Raza, and Amna Hassan Kazmi contributed to the deliberations.

Over the years, PLF has evolved into more than a literary gathering, serving as a platform for social change. By amplifying marginalised voices and fostering dialogue on equity, inclusion, and innovation, the festival continues to inspire collective action toward a just and sustainable society.

The first day concluded with a spirited performance by Laal, who energised the audience with their Aman aur Rawadaari Kay Geet.

Published in Dawn, April 22nd, 2026