Experts call for community role in heritage conservation

A panel discussion titled "Preserving the Past for a Sustainable Future" was held at the historic Shalimar Gardens on Monday, bringing together experts from academia, government, and development sectors to emphasise sustainable preservation of cultural heritage sites.

The event was organised by the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) and focused on strengthening heritage conservation through public awareness, policy integration, and community participation. Director General WCLA Najamus Saqib said social media is increasingly playing a key role in promoting Pakistan's heritage at the global level.

He stressed that community engagement remains central to conservation efforts, noting that international experience shows funding and sustainability are often linked to local community support.

Professor Emeritus Neelum Naz called for introducing heritage education at the primary school level to build awareness from an early age.

She also suggested creative awareness tools, such as stamps and matchboxes, to highlight historical sites and cultural identity.

THAAP CEO Sajida Vandal emphasised the importance of making heritage more accessible to the public in order to shift societal attitudes and encourage greater appreciation of cultural assets.

Architect Umer Farooq from Beaconhouse National University highlighted the need for innovative strategies to engage younger generations, noting that youth today have multiple entertainment and digital alternatives competing for their attention. Member National Assembly Shaista Pervaiz Malik linked traditional crafts with tourism and economic development, stressing the need for policy support to ensure sustainable livelihoods for artisans.