ThinkFest opens doors to intellectual discourse

LAHORE:

The seventh edition of Afkar-e-Taza ThinkFest commenced at the Alhamrah Arts Council in Lahore, beckoning individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in discussions spanning socio-political, economic, cultural, and climate change topics.

The inaugural day witnessed the participation of eminent speakers from across the globe and Pakistan, setting the stage for two days of insightful deliberations.

The event kicked off with a thought-provoking panel discussion titled “Reimagining Pakistan: Exploring the Need for a New Social Contract.” Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Dr Miftah Ismail, former Federal Finance Minister, highlighted the vital role of intellectual discourse in shaping Pakistan’s future.

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Abbasi stressed the necessity of revisiting and amending the constitution to bridge the gap between the state and its people. Both panellists advocated for empowering local governments as a key strategy to combat corruption, praising the local bodies systems implemented during General Musharraf’s tenure.

They underscored the importance of education in effectively addressing corruption.

In another enlightening panel, Dr Ishrat Husain, former federal minister, and others provided an insightful overview of economic development in Pakistan since its inception in 1947.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 14^th, 2024.