In a significant move to support the arts community, the Lahore Arts Council Alhamra has announced a salary increase for the faculty of its prestigious Alhamra Academy of Performing Arts. The decision was revealed during an interactive meeting held on Friday at the Alhamra Adbi Bethak.
Meeting Yields Positive Outcome for Faculty
Muhammad Nawaz Gondal, the Executive Director of Alhamra, presided over the meeting where teachers presented details of their academic work and creative contributions. Following the session, and acting on the special directives of Punjab Minister for Information and Culture, Azma Bokhari, Gondal made the welcome announcement of enhanced salaries for the academy's educators.
Collective Support for a Vital Initiative
The Executive Director highlighted that this essential step was made possible through the full backing of key officials. He acknowledged the active and supportive roles played by Syed Tahir Raza Hamdani, Secretary of Information and Culture for Punjab, and Razi Ahmed, Chairman of the Lahore Arts Council Board of Governors, along with other board members.
Gondal also invited constructive suggestions from the faculty to further strengthen the academy, stressing that institutional growth is only possible through a collective vision and shared responsibility. The faculty members expressed their gratitude for the salary enhancement and reaffirmed their commitment to serving with renewed passion.
Arts as a Pillar of National Identity
Addressing the gathering, the Executive Director emphasized the crucial role of cultural institutions. He stated that fine arts must serve as a powerful medium to present Pakistan's rich national identity and cultural depth with dignity to the world. It is, he remarked, the collective duty of institutions like Alhamra to project this true and positive image in the most meaningful manner.
The meeting was also attended by Deputy Director Administration Umair Hassan, Deputy Director Programs Waseem Akram, In-Charge Alhamra Academy Naveen Roma, and other officials.
