KARACHI, Feb 23: Several political leaders, academicians, teachers and social workers besides a large number of students on Wednesday visited the second day of the three-day book fair held at the Sadequain Lawns.

The event is being organized by students of the NED University of Engineering and Technology under the banner of Study Aid Project. Ghafoor Ahmed, PPP leader Prof N.D. Khan, MMA leader Allama Hasan Turabi, renowned analyst Prof Shamim Akhtar, MPA Nasrullah Shajjee, Chairman Sadequain Institute Khawaja Ahmed Shahid and others visited the fair.

According to the event's organizers, over 4,000 students from the University of Karachi, Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology, Federal Urdu University, NED varsity, and other schools and colleges visited the fair. Books on engineering and other material are on sale at 25 per cent discount.

Speaking to students and visitors at the fair, Senator Prof Ghafoor Ahmed lauded the SAP and the IJT for frequently holding such book fairs in the city. Prof Ghafoor criticized the government for not lifting the ban on student unions despite the apex court's ruling and called it contempt of court.

He called for bringing improvement in the existing educational facilities in the country especially in Sindh; saying unfortunately over 50 per cent children in the province were deprived of primary education.

PPP leader Prof N.D. Khan said such book fairs helped students in acquiring books and other educational material at cheaper rates. He extended all-out support for holding such events.

MPA Nasrullah Shajjee demanded the NED varsity administration to allow students to hold such book fairs on campus as permitted by other public and private varsities, saying it would save students from lots of trouble. The fair would be concluded Feb 24. - PPI