Overseas Coordinator aims to keep KLA flying high

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Overseas Coordinator of the Karachi Librarian Association (KLA), Muhammad Younis Hashmi, has set high goals for letting the association continue flying high in every nook and corner of the world. 

Having relocated in Canada’s city of Milton, after having been a practicing librarian for more than four decades in his home country, Pakistan, he has kept himself busy in professional and social engagements. He has had incredible passion for his chosen field and he desires to raise the bar for KLA, of which he is one of the co-founders. 

“The KLA has tremendous potential. While my fellow office-bearers are doing a great job in their respective capacities at Karachi, I am trying my best for the furtherance of our noble cause abroad, particularly in Canada and the United States of America (USA). I am reaching out the librarians who are based here now after having studied and worked at the City of Lights,” Younis Hashmi remarked enthusiastically while talking to PNFS on Boxing Day. 

“I have already touched base with quite a few stalwarts of the profession who have made North America as their home. Almost every one of them is excited and thrilled with the development and progress which the KLA has made in just four months after having emerged on the horizon on August 25, 2023,” he disclosed. 

“Now I am planning to introduce the KLA to the library community of USA and Canada. We are confident that they would extend cooperation to us. Our librarians can learn lot from each other by sharing experiences. The KLA will bridge the gap with the active support of its energetic office-bearers under the leadership and guidance of our President, Farheen Mahmood, and our Advisor, Syed Khalid Mahmood” he concluded.

Sudden rebirth of Karachi Library Association

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

As some people say many great things happens by chance. So was the case of birth or rather rebirth of Karachi Library Association (KLA). It was during an informal conference call between four like-minded visionaries, three of them career librarians and the fourth one a library activist, when the word KLA was mentioned for the first time during the second week of August 2023. 

Muhammad Younus Hashmi, now having relocated in Canada after serving the technical library of the national flag-carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), for more than four decades, floated the idea of creating a platform by the name of KLA to carry out activities to boost the community of librarians. 

Both Farheen Mahmood, Chief Librarian, Adamjee Government College, and Shama Bano, Chief Librarian, PECHS Government College, equally passionate to do something good for fellow librarians, promptly agreed to the suggestion and they tasked Syed Khalid Mahmood, having vast experience of social sector, to do spadework for the proposed KLA. That’s how it all began! The rest is history as they say. 

The goodwill and endeavours of the quartet helped in turning the dream into reality much more quickly than anticipated. Syed Munawwar Ali, Nasir Mustafa, Bushra Roohi, Prof Amir Subhani, Wajid Ali Chandio, Rehana Sadiq, Ali Asghar Dars and Farzana Zafar, eight more librarians of eminence, sharing the burning desire to make things happen, got together on the historic day of August 25 as the ‘dedicated dozen’ joined hands formally by declaring the formation of KLA with a bang. A new star was born. The date is now set to be celebrated as Foundation Day of KLA in the years to come. 

Historically there used to be an organization by the identical name of KLA, established soon after the creation of Pakistan. They contributed their bit before receding into background. Therefore, technically it could also be described as rebirth of the first-ever library body of the country. Birth or rebirth, the newly launched KLA seems to be having the energy as well as resources to bring about revolution of sorts. The founder members of new KLA possess the drive and determination to sail through rough tides in order to achieve their objectives.

KLA dignitaries recognized in Syed Khalid Mahmood’s author session at Habib Public School

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The top officials of the Karachi Library Association (KLA) were recognized by the Principal of the famed Habib Public School during the Author Session, conducted by Syed Khalid Mahmood, an eminent media personality and library activist, as a part of the International Literacy Day celebrations. 

Farheen Mahmood, President, KLA, and Shama Bano, Senior Vice President, KLA, were specially invited at the event as the guests of honour. They were also escorted to the Senior Library where they went around its various sections. 

“The library team thoroughly appreciates your efforts in reviving the reading culture in society through your activities and initiatives from the platform of the KLA,” Rubina Merchant, Head of Library Science at Habib Public School, reckoned. 

The Principal of the school, Minhas Tejani, presented mementoes to both the guests of honour as well as to the man of the moment, author Syed Khalid Mahmood, who also happens to be the Advisor to KLA. 

The author session on the subject of ‘explore the world of sports through books’ turned out to be an extremely lively event as a large number of students from Class VI to VIII participated actively in it and showed a lot of inclination towards creative activities. The participants displayed hunger for reading and listening to stories of outstanding athletes besides other high-achievers.

KLA delegation attends digital library inauguration at Nusrat Bhutto College

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Other than participation of a delegation of the Karachi Library Association (KLA), the inauguration ceremony of digital library at Nusrat Bhutto Degree College in Lyari, Karachi, on September 19 turned out to be a lackluster affair. 

The Director General of Colleges, Government of Sindh, Prof Shadab Hussain, who was the designated chief guest, didn’t turn up for the event The Regional Director of Colleges, Prof Suleman Sayal, in his presidential address spoke about various challenges being faced by his department without even touching the subject of digitalization of libraries. 

The Principal of Nusrat Bhutto Degree College, Prof Muhammad Rauf, also didn’t deem it proper to share details of the digital library which was being inaugurated which looked quite strange to the participants of ceremony, which featured heads of various other colleges of the area. 

The college librarian, Abdul Wajid Chandio, who also happens to be the Joint Secretary of KLA, conducted the proceedings in an impressive manner but it were the majority of the speakers who didn’t deem it proper to talk about the subject of the day which was digitalization of library. 

The KLA President, Farheen Mahmood, was the only speaker to briefly touch the subject. The KLA Advisor, Syed Khalid Mahmood, was also present on the occasion.

KLA President believes in letting work do all talking

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Unlike the majority of her contemporaries, the Founder President of Karachi Library Association (KLA), Farheen Mahmood, firmly believes in letting the work do all the talking instead of making noise simply by engaging into publicity stunts.

“The media coverage of events is obviously vital which has to be earned but setting high standards. The best way to stay in the news is to keep performing at the stage. From the platform of KLA we plan to be doing lots of things to boost the image of the librarians as well as serve the cause of general public,” the soft-spoken seasoned library professional remarked in a brief chat with PNFS on September 13. 

Currently working as Chief Librarian at the iconic Adamjee Government College, after having served as Principal of the Government Degree College for Women Sector 11-I North Karachi, where she had set a new trend by organizing a fun-filled and action-packed Library Day in February 2022, Farheen foresees a bright future for KLA. 

“The KLA founding members are committed to the profession and all of them also care for the society. We feel blessed to have gathered such a strong team which has already started making vibes due to its sincere efforts and regular activities,” she pointed out.

“The KLA will be sustaining this momentum as all the founding members are on board to drive the Association with their constant participation. It’s really fulfilling for me to be leading a well-knit team of such dedicated professionals all of whom are raring to go,” Farheen concluded.

KLA, RCKD support in setting up first-ever library at government school of Karachi

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Karachi Library Association (KLA) and the Rotary Club of Karachi Darakhshan (RCKD) extended support in setting up the first-ever library at a government school of Karachi and the dream came true with the inauguration of a library at Rabia Basri Girls Secondary School, housed in Block 17 of Federal-B-Area, on September 12. 

The KLA Founder President, Farheen Mahmood, accompanied by Syed Khalid Mahmood (Advisor), Ali Asghar Dars (Joint Secretary) and Professor Amir Subhani, attended the simple but graceful ceremony in which the large number of donated books were also displayed. 

The KLA functionaries expressed their delight at the enthusiasm of the school management and advised them to retain the intensity. 

On behalf of RCKD, its President, Farzana Moghul, Charter President, Jahangir Moghul, and Immediate Past President, Awais Moghul, congratulated the school management as well as the officers of the District Municipal Corporation (DMC), Karachi Central, for initiating the library project and they hoped that other government schools will also plan establishing libraries at their campuses to facilitate students and teachers more effectively. 

Both the organizations, KLA and RCKD, have donated a substantial number of books to help Rabia Basri School build a useful collection of different genres from the outset. The high quality of books, which included dictionaries, was thoroughly appreciated by the students as well as the teachers. 

The officials of KLA and RCKD, after attending the inauguration ceremony at the school library, also visited different classrooms where they strongly urged the students to make the best use of the books by reading them and also reviewing them in order to improve their scholastic abilities.

The inauguration ceremony of library at Rabia Basri School was also attended by the government officers, both serving and retired. They appreciated the spirit of KLA and RCKD in extending support to the school in setting up a library. They did not mince words in stating that lot was needed to be done for the society and the task could only be accomplished with all stakeholders remained on board. 

KLA’s efforts to revive public libraries get instant results

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The efforts for the revival of public libraries by the Karachi Library Association (KLA) have brought immediate success as Colonel Sher Khan Library, situated in Block 10 of Federal-B-Area, which was locked for ages, has now been reopened in a matter of just a couple of weeks. 

Accompanied by the officers of the District Municipal Corporation (DMC), Karachi Central, a delegation of the KLA, headed by its President, Farheen Mahmood, and also including its Advisor, Syed Khalid Mahmood, had visited the premises of Colonel Sher Khan Library for the first time on August 29. 

They could not enter the library hall because its keys were unavailable and the surrounding area was in complete disarray because the facility had stayed locked for the last many years. 

Following a series of meetings between the KLA office-bearers and the government officials as well as the elected representatives during the last two weeks, ways and means were discussed at length to revive Colonel Sher Khan Library besides taking remedial actions. 

The seriousness of all stakeholders brought about immediate rewards and the library itself hosted a meeting of the stakeholders on September 12, which was nothing short of a miracle. It augurs well for the area people as they had been demanding for its restoration for quite some time. 

The KLA leadership in particular deserves praise for having taken up the issue with the concerned authorities and also following it up with them on a regular basis to achieve the goal of reviving public libraries in Karachi.

Sitara-e-Imtiaz conferred upon Aziz Memon

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The iconic figure of Aziz Memon, in recognition for his overwhelming contributions towards the cause of humanity, was conferred upon the prestigious Sitara-e-Imtiaz, one of the highest civilian awards, by the Government of Pakistan on the 76th Independence Day. Quite fittingly, he was recognized in the category of Public Service (Humanitarian & Community Services). Earlier he was presented President of Pakistan's Pride of Performance Award in 2011.  

It’s yet another feather of Aziz Memon, whose accomplishments in the social sector are deemed to be second to none in the country. His role in the eradication of polio over the years in particular has been extraordinary. He has achieved numerous firsts in a distinguished career to be acknowledged as a legend in his lifetime. The most recent attainment of his is the Karachi Festival of Books and Libraries, (KFBL) which he has founded and its inaugural edition is scheduled to be held later this year. 

Aziz Memon is a successful entrepreneur being the Chairman of Kings Group of Companies, whose core interest is in textiles. He was elected as Trustee of the Rotary Foundation for a period of four years in 2020, becoming the first Pakistani to acquire this position. 

He created another history in 2022 when he was elected as the President of the International Council of English Speaking Union (ESU) for the term 2022-2024 during its held at Karachi. He is the first Pakistani to be elected to this coveted slot. He had been the President of the English Speaking Union of Pakistan (ESUP) before becoming its Patron-in-Chief. 

Hailed as one of the most distinguished decorations to the civilians, the Sitara-e-Imtiaz recognizes individuals having made meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of Pakistan, world peace, cultural or other significant public endeavours. It is a highly restricted and prestigious award presented to those having done great services to the country. It is awarded to salute outstanding contribution in their respected fields such as literature, arts, sports, science and public service which prompted the recognition of the country on international level.

Aziz Memon highlights Rotary’s combat against malnutrition

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

“Malnutrition wreaks havoc on the lives of countless children in Pakistan, driving high mortality rates and inflicting devastating consequences on their growth and brain development. These vulnerable children endure weakened immune systems, rendering them easy prey to a myriad of illnesses and infections. Furthermore, malnutrition cruelly stunts their growth, enfeebles their bodies, and impairs their motor skills, leaving lasting scars on their holistic development,” Aziz Memon, Chairman, Trust for Malnutrition & Stunted Growth (TMSG), observed in a recent interview.

“Yet, within this bleak reality, there is a glimmer of hope, an extraordinary solution known as Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF). This exceptional innovation has exhibited unparalleled success in treating severe acute malnutrition, boasting a staggering 95 percent recovery rate when administered under diligent medical supervision. RUTF, a miraculous nutrient-rich paste, serves as a lifeline for malnourished children, replenishing their bodies with the vital nutrients necessary for their recovery and rejuvenation,” he disclosed. 

“The gravity of malnutrition has not gone unnoticed by stalwart organizations like Rotary International, who comprehend its pivotal role in the fight against child mortality and the pursuit of healthy development. Determined to effect transformative change, Rotary and its partners undertake visionary strategies aimed at enhancing access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities. These crucial factors are intrinsically intertwined with malnutrition and the transmission of disease,” Aziz Memon, himself holding a key component of the Rotary International leadership at the global level, added. 

“With an unwavering commitment to progress, Rotary endeavors to fortify water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure, erecting barriers against waterborne diseases that exacerbate malnutrition and perpetuate a perilous cycle of suffering. By forging a healthier environment, Rotary's endeavors not only diminish the risk of malnutrition-related complications but also engender a formidable defense against disease, fostering improved overall health outcomes,” the former Governor of Rotary International District 3270, shared. 

“Additionally, Rotary extends invaluable support to nutrition programs that supply children with the essential nutrients they so desperately need. Through initiatives like supplementary feeding, where nutritious meals and supplements are provided, Rotary nourishes these young lives, bridging the gaps in their diets. The organization also combats specific nutrient deficiencies prevalent in the region through targeted micronutrient supplementation, ensuring that no child is deprived of the sustenance required for their optimal well-being,” Aziz Memon, who also heads Pakistan’s Polio Plus National Committee, continued. 

“Equally pivotal is the transformative power of education and awareness campaigns championed by Rotary. By igniting knowledge and understanding among parents, caregivers, and communities, these campaigns foster lasting behavioral changes centered on balanced diets and healthy eating practices. Empowering individuals to make informed choices, Rotary paves the way for improved nutrition and heralds a decline in the prevalence of malnutrition and its harrowing consequences,” he reckoned. 

“Rotary International is an integral part of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) that spearheads polio immunization campaigns in remote and high-risk areas, precisely where malnutrition and polio rates converge. The Government of Pakistan and GPEI partners ensure all children receive the polio vaccine, to fortify their defenses against this insidious disease, safeguarding their lives. The treacherous viral disease, often inflicting paralysis and death, particularly among children, remains a formidable foe,” he highlighted. 

“It is important to recognize that Rotary's efforts against malnutrition indirectly bolster the fight against polio as well. Malnourished children, burdened with weakened immune systems, are at heightened risk of falling victim to the poliovirus. However, by addressing malnutrition head-on and bolstering children's nutritional status, Rotary fortifies their immune response, creating an inhospitable environment for the poliovirus to take hold and reducing the likelihood of infection and its debilitating complications,” Aziz Memon elaborated. 

“With a multifaceted and integrated approach, Rotary International and its partners stand as beacons of hope, actively transforming the lives of children. By prioritizing interventions that address the root causes of malnutrition, bolster immune systems, deliver essential nutrients, and promote vaccination, they forge an extraordinary impact. Through their unwavering commitment to reduce child mortality rates and foster healthier communities, Rotary paves the way for a brighter future, where the specter of malnutrition and its associated perils recede into history,” he concluded.

Dr Rafat Parveen notified as DLIS chairperson at KU

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Dr Rafat Parveen Siddiqui has been appointed as Chairperson of Department of Library and Information Science at the University of Karachi with immediate effect. The notification in this regard was issued by the university registrar on June 8. 

Previously working as Associate Professor at DLIS, she brings to table three decades of experience in librarianship, research and teaching at university level. She has had a distinguished academic record, having three gold medals in her academic career. She had received her Ph.D in 2017 from the University of Karachi. 

She had debuted as an author with ‘Pakistan Kay Urdu Hawalajati Makhuzat’ in 2021. She has also written two dozen research articles having been published in various national and international journals of repute. 

More of an introvert in nature, she remains passionate about her work and she is firmly committed to motivate the students in developing their skills and potential for achieving better results. She has assisted numerous budding scholars while serving as Students Advisor for more than 15 years.

Eminent authors charm Delhi OBA book month

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Raees Fatima and Mahboob Elahi Makhmoor, both of them having earned fame and eminence for having written extensively for children, charmed the audience by sharing their decades long experiences during the Author Session, a part of the book month event organized by the Delhi Anglo-Arabic College and Schools Old Boys Association (DAACSOBA) with the collaboration of the National Library Association (NLA) and the Rotary Club of Karachi Darakhshan (RCKD). 

The Author Session, held at the Delhi Montessori & Primary School on May 26, witnessed a detailed talk on using children’s literature for character building. The hall was packed to capacity with students, teachers and a few dignitaries. The interactive session turned out to be quite lively as the authors were inquired about various aspects of their scholastic career. 

Mahboob Elahi Makhmoor, one of the favourite writers among children’s folks across the country, revealed how he was attracted to reading books from his childhood which eventually prompted him to pick up a piece of paper and narrate his own thoughts. 

“I grew up reading Naunehal magazine and the inspirational articles of Hakim Mohammad Said the great appealed to me the most. He was the motivation to me in my childhood. I started contributing to children’s publications and the thrill of getting published lifted my spirits,” he recalled. 

“Monthly Anokhi Kahaniyan is our labour of love. It was my dream to start a magazine for children which was eventually fulfilled. The magazine has remained afloat for decades now despite the various challenges from time to time as our prime objective is to bring about a positive change in the society rather than thinking commercially,” he added. 

Raees Fatima, who has authored 18 books, many of them exclusively for children, informed the audience that, being a part of an educated family, she had the access to high quality literature in the comfort of her house from the beginning.

“I became a passionate reader from a very young age and as I was trying to absorb all that stuff the thought of writing crossed my mind and it soon developed into my hobby. I have continued putting my thoughts on paper even today and little wonder that I have authored so many books and articles despite having pursued the profession of teaching for a long time,” she observed. 

Farheen Mahmood, Senior Vice President, NLA, also gave a detailed talk on the subject and she warmed the hearts of the students in particular by urging them to try to develop a tendency of jotting down things their various activities which would enable them to improve their writing skills. Although a librarian by profession, she has continued to impress with her enormous knowledge on social issues. 

Syed Khalid Mahmood, Acting President, Delhi Anglo-Arabic College & Schools Old Boys Association, Prof Ahmed Ali Mukarram, Principal, Delhi College of Science & Commerce, and Anwar Hussain, Secretary General, NLA, also spoke on the occasion. 

The vote of thanks was presented by Prof Saeed Naqvi, Vice Principal, Delhi College of Science & Commerce, in which he lauded both the authors besides praising the continued efforts of Delhi Anglo-Arabic College and Schools Old Boys Association in promoting library and reading culture among the society.

Senior librarians visit Adamjee College, greet Farheen Mahmood

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

A delegation comprising of senior librarians called on the Chief Librarian of Adamjee Government Science College, Karachi, Farheen Mahmood, on May 25. After exchange of pleasantries, they discussed matters of mutual interest. 

Mannoomal Asrani (Government Superior Science College), Syed Munawwar Ali (Jamia Millia Government College of Education), Abdul Qadir Abbasi (Government College for Men, Korangi 6) and Shama Bano (PECHS Government College for Women) formed the delegation to visit Adamjee Government Science College. 

They presented the traditional Sindh Ajrak to Farheen Mahmood, who assumed responsibilities as Chief Librarian of Adamjee Government Science College a few months ago after having worked as Principal of Government Degree College for Women, Sector 11-I, North Karachi. 

Farheen Mahmood, presently the senior most female librarian in government service at provincial level, has also been hailed as the most proactive library professional because of her organizational abilities and the passion for doing big things. 

She had created history of sorts by holding the Library Day event at the Government Degree College for Women, Sector 11-I, North Karachi on an unprecedented grand scale last year when she was posted there as Principal. Her template became a talk of the town, motivating other institutions to derive a leaf out of her book. 

In recognition of her exceptional track record, she was specially invited to join their organizing committee by Delhi Anglo-Arabic College and Schools Old Boys Association (DAACSOBA) which has successfully held Library Week and Book Month during last few months.

Motivational speakers enlighten Delhi OBA book month

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The trio of Hira Yaseen, Abdul Hamid and Azra Ali, all of them leading professionals in their respective vocations, enlightened the audience with their inspirational talks during the Motivational Session, a part of the ongoing book month event being held under the auspices of the Delhi Anglo-Arabic College and Schools Old Boys Association (DAACSOBA) with the collaboration of the National Library Association (NLA) and the Rotary Club of Karachi Darakhshan (RCKD). 

The Motivational Session, organized at the Delhi Montessori & Primary School on May 20, was spread over a couple of hours in which the learned speakers shared their thoughts on the subject of multiple benefits of book reading. An interactive session also followed in which some probing questions were asked by the participating students and teachers. Prof Syed Zulfiqar Ali, Principal, DHA Degree College, presided over the session. 

It may be recalled that the opening ceremony of book month was held with great fanfare on April 29. An Authors Session is planned to be organized on May 27 while the month-long activities will come to a halt with the prize distribution ceremony on May 28. 

Hira Yaseen, recognized as one of the most versatile library professionals with proven track record as a college librarian, was the first speaker in the Motivational Session. She is one of the founding members of the NLA. After having served as its Joint Secretary for six years she was recently elected as its Vice President for the term of next two years. 

After being a part of its leadership for the last few years, she has also been elected as President of the Sindh College Library Association (SCLA) for a term of two years (2023-2025).

Abdul Hamid is a professional trainer in the field of management, accounting and finance. He is the Chief Executive Officer of his own enterprise, Business Research and Management Group (BRMG), having interests in diversified fields. He is also Secretary of Jumbo Book Club, which promotes reading culture by facilitating availability of books at affordable prices for the masses. 

Azra Ali has had a prolific career in teaching and education management. She has proven track record as a teacher and administrator, having worked with distinction at the some of the most prestigious educational institutions like The City School and Habib Public School among others. 

Syed Muzaffar Ali Shah, President, NLA, Farheen Mahmood, Senior Vice President, NLA, Anwar Hussain, Secretary General, NLA, Shama Bano, Joint Secretary, NLA, and Muhammad Nasir Nayab, Treasurer, NLA, were present in the ceremony alongwith their Advisor, Syed Khalid Mahmood, and Vice President, Hira Yaseen.

The vote of thanks was presented by Anwar Hussain, Secretary General NLA, in which he expressed gratitude to the three motivational speakers besides acknowledging the efforts of Delhi Anglo-Arabic College and Schools Old Boys Association in promoting library and reading culture from the grassroots level.

Prof Rumina Akhtar notified as Principal of Adamjee Science College

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Prof Rumina Akhtar, one of the most widely respected teachers, has been appointed as Principal of the prestigious Adamjee Government Science College, Karachi, acclaimed as the top college of the province of Sindh for a number of years. 

The notification in this regard was issued with the approval of the Sindh Chief Secretary, Dr Muhammad Sohail Rajput, on May 15 according to which the Professor of Biochemistry (BS-20) has been posted as Principal of Adamjee Science College with immediate effect and until further orders against an existing vacancy. 

Hailing from an enlightened and highly educated family, Prof Rumina Akhtar has an experience of more than 33 years in teaching and education management at college level. 

After completing Masters in Biochemistry from the University of Karachi in 1989, she had started her career the following year as she was posted as lecturer (BS-17) at the D J Science Government College in 1990. She was promoted to the rank of Assistant Professor (BS-18) in 2005 while she became an Associate Professor (BS-19) nine years later. 

She was elevated to the post of a Professor (BS-20) in 2022. Quite remarkably, she has taught with distinction at Adamjee Science College and D J Science College, two of the best colleges of the province, during her illustrious career.

Delhi OBA’s book month in full swing

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Various activities are being held during book month at Delhi Montessori & Primary School which is scheduled to conclude with prize distribution ceremony on May 28. Organized by the Delhi Anglo-Arabic College and Schools Old Boys Association (DAACSOBA) at its school and college campuses, its opening ceremony was held on April 29. 

The National Library Association (NLA) and the Rotary Club of Karachi Darakhshan (RCKD) are collaborating with the DAACSOBA in holding the landmark event, thought to be first of its kind in Pakistan. They had also joined hands in organizing the first-ever library week at the same premises, housed in Karachi’s buzzing locality of Karimabad, in February 2023. 

While the teachers and the students at Delhi College for Science & Commerce are preoccupied in preliminary examination, with annual board exams round the corner, there’s an opportunity for Delhi Montessori & Primary School to get lion’s share in book month activities. 

The campus of Delhi Montessori & Primary School has been wearing festive look since inauguration of book month and the intensity has not been compromised despite the unforeseen challenges like terrifying weather and uncertain law and order situation in the city. 

The thematic posters designed by Tehmeena Khalil, the young and creative teacher-cum-artist, hanging on walls, continue to add glamour and grace to the school besides promoting the event herself. 

Shahida Nazim, Principal, Delhi Montessori & Primary School, has credited their teaching quartet of Ambreen Syed, Sana Javed, Daniya Saeed and Tehmeena Khalil for making the event successful by organizing books related activities in their respective classes.

Hira Yaseen elected SCLA President

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Hira Yaseen has been elected unopposed as President of the Sindh College Library Association (SCLA) while Zulfiqar Ali Channa (Vice President), Shazia Qadir (Lady Vice President), Munir Ahmed Memon (Secretary General), Azhar Ali (Joint Secretary), Shahla Shaikh (Lady Joint Secretary), Abdul Qadir Abbasi (Finance Secretary) and Sarwan Mehraj (Press & Publicity Secretary) have also been declared successful unopposed for their respective positions for a term of next two years (2023-2025). 

The notification in this regard was issued recently by Zainul Abedin Abbasi, Chairman, Election Committee, SCLA, subsequently circulated publicly and its copy was also shared with PNFS. 

The polling was scheduled to be held at Hyderabad on May 13 which would not be needed anymore as no other candidates submitted nominations for any post by its deadline and the above office-bearers were declared successful unopposed. 

Hira Yaseen is an experienced Karachi-based college librarian, who has been serving as Joint Secretary of the National Library Association (NLA) since its establishment in 2017. She is also a motivational speaker.

The SCLA, now in its 25th year of existence, is an active platform of librarians working at the various colleges in the province of Sindh. Its mandate includes resolution of problems faced by the college librarians particularly the service matters at the governmental level.

Delhi OBA’s book month inaugurated colorfully

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Despite threats of rain, the opening ceremony of book month, being hosted by the Delhi Anglo-Arabic College and Schools Old Boys Association (DAACSOBA) at its school and college campuses, turned out to be a well-attended event on April 29. A special welcome tableau on books, presented by the students of Delhi Montessori & Primary School, caught the imagination of the audience. 

The book month, first of its kind in Pakistan, is being organized by the DAACSOBA with the collaboration of the National Library Association (NLA) and the Rotary Club of Karachi Darakhshan (RCKD). These three organizations had also joined hands in holding the first-ever library week at the same premises, housed in the bustling locality of Karimabad, in February 2023. 

Mahboob Elahi Makhmoor, founding editor of Anokhi Kahaniyan, a famous magazine for children, was the chief guest in the inauguration ceremony which was also attended by Prof Syed Zulfiqar Ali, Principal, DHA Degree College for Men, Karachi. Both the dignitaries, during their speeches, while praising the initiatives of the DAACSOBA leaders, highlighted the need to have such extra-curricular activities at regular intervals. 

Syed Khalid Mahmood, Acting President, DAACSOBA, in his welcome address, shared the vision behind launching book month, an event, which he reckoned, will be helpful in motivating students to read more books. 

Farheen Mahmood, Vice President, NLA, who is credited to have organized several library events during her tenure as Principal of the Government Degree College for Women 11-I, North Karachi, was appreciative of the continued efforts of the DAACSOBA leadership aimed at bringing the students closer to books and libraries. 

Awais Moghul, President, RCKD, also expressed his delight at the engagement of students in events like library week and book month which, he felt, go a long way in fuelling their passion for reading. Assuring Rotary support, he congratulated the DAACSOBA office-bearers for undertaking the arduous task for the promotion of education from the grassroots level. 

One of the features of the opening ceremony was the display of various thematic posters designed by Tehmeena Khalil, the young and creative teacher of Delhi Montessori & Primary School, who was showered with praise for her excellent work. She was presented a special prize on the occasion. 

Shahida Nazim, Principal, Delhi Montessori & Primary School, presented the vote of thanks in which she made particular mention of their teachers, Ambreen Syed, Sana Javed, Daniya Saeed and Tehmeena Khalil for their proactive participation.

Delhi OBA’s book month opens on April 29

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The book month, being organized by the Delhi Anglo-Arabic College and Schools Old Boys Association (DAACSOBA) at its school and college campuses, will be opening on April 29. 

The DAACSOBA is holding the book month, first event of its kind to be in the country, with the collaboration of the National Library Association (NLA) and the Rotary Club of Karachi Darakhshan (RCKD). These three organizations had previously joined hands in staging the first-ever library week at the same premises, housed in Karachi’s bustling locality of Karimabad, earlier this year. 

Syed Khalid Mahmood, Acting President, DAACSOBA, heads the book month committee also having Farheen Mahmood, Vice President, NLA, besides Shahida Nazim, Principal, Delhi Montessori & Primary School, the school teachers, Ambreen Syed, Sana Javed, Daniya Saeed and Tehmeena Khalil, and Syed Arshad Ahmed. 

Despite forecast for heavy rains in Karachi over the weekend, all arrangements have been finalized at the venue for the two-hour opening ceremony which is scheduled to commence at 10 am. 

One of the features of the opening ceremony will be the display of various thematic posters designed by Tehmeena Khalil, the young and creative teacher of Delhi Montessori & Primary School.

Delhi OBA to hold book month from April 29 to May 28

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Delhi Anglo-Arabic College and Schools Old Boys Association (DAACSOBA), headquartered in Karachi, has confirmed holding the book month at its school and college campuses from April 29 to May 28. 

A follow-up meeting in this regard was held at the Association’s office, housed in Karimabad, Federal-B-Area, on April 19 in which the eight-member committee headed by the Acting President, Syed Khalid Mahmood, deliberated on organizational matters. 

The book month, believed to be first event of its kind in the country, is being organized by DAACSOBA with the technical assistance of the National Library Association (NLA) and it’s supported by Rotary Club of Karachi Darakhshan (RCKD). These three organizations had also joined hands in staging the first-ever library week successfully at the same premises earlier this year. 

Farheen Mahmood, Vice President, NLA, who was credited to have played pivotal role in the success of the library week, expressed her delight at the works of the young teachers in the book month committee who came up with stunning designs for posters and promotion for the upcoming event. 

Shahida Nazim, Principal, Delhi Montessori & Primary School, kept on urging the teachers to make the most of the book month by motivating the students to come nearer to books which was the main reason for holding the event. 

The school teachers, Ambreen Syed, Sana Javed, Daniya Saeed and Tehmeena Khalil, who are part of the organizing committee, were commended for their proactive approach in preparing for the event. They also put forward their suggestions to make the book month more fulfilling. 

Tehmeena Khalil, in particular, was praised lavishly to her creative poster designs which were found to be very attractive and meaningful. She acknowledged the support of the Principal and fellow teachers in making it possible.

Syed Arshad Ahmed, on behalf of DAACSOBA, thanked the school’s Principal and the teachers for working beyond the call of duty to produce work wonders for the students. He also paid tribute to Ms Farheen Mahmood for sparing her invaluable time in guiding the committee members. 

The DAACSOBA Acting President, Syed Khalid Mahmood, who chaired the meeting, spoke about the multiple benefits of teamwork and urged the committee members to sustain the intensity for doing bigger projects in future. Allowing everyone to share thoughts, he complimented every member individually for contributing their bit.

Delhi OBA set to organize book month at its school, college

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Delhi Anglo-Arabic College and Schools Old Boys Association (DAACSOBA), based in Karachi, is all set to add another feather in its cap by organizing book month at its school and college campuses from April 29 to May 28. 

A meeting in this regard was held at the Association’s office, housed in Federal-B-Area, on April 13 in which the organizational matters were brainstormed at length by the eight-member committee headed by the Acting President, Syed Khalid Mahmood. 

 The book month, understood to be the first-ever event of its kind anywhere in the country, is being organized by DAACSOBA with the technical assistance of the National Library Association (NLA) and it’s supported by Rotary Club of Karachi Darakhshan (RCKD). These three organizations had also joined hands in staging the first-ever library week very successfully at the same premises a couple of months ago. 

Farheen Mahmood, Vice President, NLA, who had played a pivotal role in the success of the library week, has once again provided the guidelines for the book week which she explained during the meeting on April 13. 

Shahida Nazim, Principal, Delhi Montessori & Primary School, regarded the book month as a big opportunity to motivate the students for reading more books by engaging them in various activities having been planned during the next four months. 

The school teachers, Ambreen Syed, Sana, Zeba and Tahmeena, displayed great enthusiasm during the session and they looked determined to make the historic event as a memorable one with their creativity and hardwork. 

Syed Arshad Ahmed, on behalf of DAACSOBA, appreciated the proactive approach of the school’s Principal and the teachers which he reckoned will go a long way in engaging the students in the events throughout the month. 

The DAACSOBA Acting President, Syed Khalid Mahmood, who chaired the meeting, also recognized the good work of the committee members and all stakeholders, urging them to continue moving with the same intensity to bring about positive changes in the society.