World Book Day, observed globally under the auspices of UNESCO, continues to uphold a long and meaningful tradition. In Pakistan, it is marked with enthusiasm across schools, colleges and public institutions. This occasion serves to highlight the importance and usefulness of books, to promote the habit of reading and to raise awareness about seeking guidance and knowledge from books.
A book represents the greatest philosophy of life. It enhances knowledge and wisdom, develops intellectual capacity, contributes to the construction and progress of society, stimulates human thought and action, nurtures thinking and serves as an effective means to understand and resolve various social issues. Societies face numerous challenges and, in order to address these effectively and find solutions to life’s problems, there is a strong need for reading books.
In Pakistan today, artificial intelligence is often treated as a passing trend, as if we are already in a post-book era. This is not the case. In a landscape shaped by AI, algorithms and abridged content, books are not out of vogue or obsolete. They are, in fact, more important, particularly in Pakistan where institutional capacity, media ecosystems and the quality of education vary.
In our context, books are not legacy artefacts. They remain a foundation for clear thinking, cultural continuity and informed decision-making. In an environment where AI is becoming more common, the real advantage lies with those who can read deeply, think independently and use AI as a tool, not as a crutch.
A book, above all, is a sincere and true friend. The best study of mankind is man himself and books introduce us to the lives, events, achievements, revolutions, successes and even failures of great individuals, each serving as a valuable lesson. Through these lessons, we can plan successfully for the future. Books play a vital role in personal development, character building and the formation of an ideal society. History bears witness to the fact that books have always guided individuals toward achieving lasting success of their societies. What we read and learn from books stays with us throughout life and guides us at every step.
In Pakistan, “Book Day” is celebrated with remarkable spirit to cultivate a culture of book reading. Relevant institutions are actively striving to achieve this objective, with the National Book Foundation in particular playing a proactive role in promoting a reading culture. For many years, it has been organising large-scale book fairs on the occasion of “Book Day,” where hundreds of thousands of people participate to cultivate their love for reading.
It is important that every effort is made to highlight “Book Day” to the fullest, emphasise the importance and usefulness of books and create opportunities for the new generation to benefit from book reading and to develop a lasting interest in reading, leading not only to personal achievement but to the nation at large.
