Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif dismissed anxieties about the potential closure or consolidation of national scientific, literary, historical, and cultural organizations under the government’s rightsizing initiative.

He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to bolstering these establishments. During a discussion with Senator Irfan Siddiqui, the Parliamentary Party Leader of the Pakistan Muslim League (N) in the Senate, the prime minister stressed the vital contribution these bodies make to the nation”s intellectual and cultural landscape.

The prime minister described these centers of learning and literature as the “soul of society,” highlighting the rich cultural legacy they represent. He explicitly stated that there are no plans to shutter or merge these important organizations. Instead, the focus will be on enhancing their effectiveness and efficiency.

Senator Siddiqui, representing the concerns of the academic and artistic community, conveyed apprehensions stemming from the Rightsizing Committee”s recommendations. He recalled the support these institutions received during Nawaz Sharif”s previous term. The prime minister acknowledged the need to protect intellectual and artistic pursuits, noting that societies that disregard these areas become susceptible to rigid thought and lose essential human qualities. He revealed plans to establish a committee tasked with modernizing the management and performance of these establishments.

Senator Siddiqui expressed gratitude for the prime minister”s firm stance and support for academic and cultural advancement.