PESHAWAR, Dec 12: The youths of Peshawar are in dire need of recreational and educational activities in the capital of a terror-hit province, said local students, who organised a cultural and business gala on Wednesday.

The Peshawar campus of National University of Modern Languages, a public sector university, had organised the event, where students showed their marketing skills and enjoyed cultural dances and food. There were around 25 stalls of various kinds that drew youths in large numbers.

The ‘Rock your feelings’ stall, which gave students an opportunity to express their feelings for classmates with roses and greeting cards, pulled crowds.

“It is so much fun and an innocent way of expressing one’s feelings,” said Sundus, a visitor to the stall.

Another stall called ‘Pay the ransom’ interested visitors, who were tricked to pay a nominal ransom and thus, causing laughter and fun.

“We need to enjoy such events. There may be threats but life should move on,” said student Huma Gul.

She said such fairs helped students make fun with friends since such occasions were rare in Peshawar.

Mansha, another student, also felt that such events gave youth an opportunity to express their feelings in a positive manner. He added that participation in such events helped youths gain confidence.

Numl Peshawar Campus director Colonel (r) Mushtaq Hussain said educational institutions held such activities because they helped students gain experience through practical work and that such events prepared youths for practical life.

“If youths enjoy dance or music respecting cultural norms and values, there is nothing wrong with it,” said Mr Hussain, stressing the need for giving proper channels to youths to express their feelings and talents.

Arshad Hussain, whose son was among the organisers, said it was a learning experience for youths and would help them prepare forpractical life.

“My son while organising this event asked me for advice whenever he encountered a problem. I think it is good that he would know how to solve problems,” said Mr Khan.

The youths not only enjoyed traditional foods, sports and dances but also thronged stalls of educational consultants, who guided them about studying abroad.

“We have engaged students to hold this event so that they enjoy as well as get experience of setting up businesses and stalls and know about marketing,” said Numl assistant director Mohammad Irfan.

The youths were of the opinion that they wanted to participate in such events as it was not only educational but also entertaining experience.

Of late, students of another university held a fashion show, which brought the work of youths to limelight and eased the city’s stressful atmosphere.