Promoting reading: Book fair under way at UoP

Students getting up to 60% discount on a variety of books.

PESHAWAR: Promising discounts of up to 55-60%, a three-day book fair kicked off at University of Peshawar (UoP) on Tuesday. A variety of books on various topics are being displayed at nearly 50 stalls.

Minister for Local Government Inayatullah Khan flanked by senior university officials inaugurated the book fair which has been organised by Islami Jamiat Talaba (IJT) with the support of Peshawar University Teachers Association.

Addressing students on the occasion, Khan spoke about the benefits of reading books and appreciated the IJT for taking the initiative to hold the book fair and the students for taking an interest.

“Students these days have occupied themselves with their mobiles and computers, but a number of them still prefer to read books and this is an excellent effort to promote a reading culture,” said Khan.

IJT President Tauheed Khan Utmani said reading helps build vocabulary and teaches people tricks and tips to use in their lives. He also thanked students for attending the fair and purchasing books.

Speaking to The Express Tribune Ayesha Rehman from the university’s gender studies department said students from across the varsity had come to the fair. “We want to purchase books on general topics but they are expensive so we only focus on buying course books,” she said. “However, we are getting discounts at the book fair and many have turned up.”

Qamar Zaman, who had set up a stall, said many students had bought books from him. “Reading has declined due to modern technology and hectic lifestyles, but a large number of people still prefer a book in their hands,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 4^th, 2015.