Islamabad (GNP): The DICE Forum, working alongside the Embassy of Bulgaria, presented a collection of books to Mashal School as part of its ongoing KITAB Project, underscoring both organizations’ dedication to nurturing literacy and broadening access to meaningful education.
The handover ceremony brought together several notable figures, including Bulgarian Ambassador to Pakistan Irena Gancheva, who attended as chief guest, along with Malik Sohail, Chairman Coordination at the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), DICE Forum Chairperson Aliya Agha, Mashal School President Fauzia Asim, and a number of teachers and students.
Opening the event, Aliya Agha described the occasion as something far more significant than a book donation — framing it as a direct investment in the potential of young people. She noted that education remains one of the most reliable paths out of poverty, and that books hold a unique and irreplaceable value, especially at a time when digital devices are steadily eroding young people’s ability to focus and think deeply. “Books are the only way to save the brains of our youth,” she said.
Agha credited the Bulgarian Embassy’s contribution as a meaningful investment in Pakistan’s next generation, and pointed to it as an example of how cultural diplomacy can translate genuine friendship between nations into concrete action. She thanked Ambassador Gancheva warmly for the Embassy’s continued backing of grassroots educational efforts that make a real difference in children’s lives.
Giving an overview of her organization’s work, Agha explained that The DICE Forum focuses on diplomacy, inclusion, climate action, and education through hands-on community programs. She described the KITAB Project as an effort to build and support school and community libraries, with the goal of making quality reading materials more accessible to students across Pakistan.
Malik Sohail of FPCCI applauded The DICE Forum for moving beyond ideas and turning policy goals into tangible outcomes through the KITAB Project. He praised Aliya Agha’s leadership in championing education as a cornerstone of long-term development, and acknowledged the Bulgarian Embassy for fostering knowledge exchange in Pakistan.
Sohail also called for stronger collaboration between government, business, and civil society, adding that FPCCI would actively encourage its member businesses nationwide to contribute to education by donating books, funding libraries, and investing in learning environments as part of their corporate social responsibility commitments.
Ambassador Gancheva, in her remarks, said that despite all the changes brought about by modern technology, books remain a timeless gateway to knowledge and personal growth. She stressed that when young people have access to reading materials and quality education, they are better equipped to grow into thoughtful, responsible, and empathetic members of society. She described the KITAB Project as a worthwhile and impactful initiative, one that not only supports learning but also strengthens the bonds of friendship between Bulgaria and Pakistan.
Fauzia Asim, President of Mashal School, delivered the closing remarks, expressing sincere appreciation to both the Bulgarian Embassy and The DICE Forum for their generosity. She said the donated books would meaningfully enrich the school’s library and open up new avenues for students to read, explore, and grow. She also recognized the combined efforts of the Embassy, The DICE Forum, and FPCCI in supporting educational progress.
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The event wrapped up with a formal presentation of books to the school library, followed by an informal exchange between guests and students. All those present reaffirmed their commitment to expanding access to books and strengthening libraries as vital centers of learning throughout Pakistan.
The KITAB Project remains active in its mission to partner with schools, development organizations, and private sector actors to build and improve libraries, with the aim of improving learning outcomes and keeping more students engaged in education.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
