The Aga Khan University (AKU) and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) convened with national and international experts for more than a week at the National Museum of Pakistan to analyze the museum’s architecture, collections and public galleries. The gathering was part of a formal partnership with the Federal Ministry of Culture and Heritage aimed at upgrading the Museum. Also present and participating was the Citizens Archive of Pakistan.
The group also made study visits of key cultural institutions, including the Mohatta Palace, State Bank Museum and the TDF MagnifiScience Centre. In addition, AKU, together with its partners, organised a discussion with stakeholders that brought together architects, museologists, historians and cultural practitioners to examine Karachi’s cultural landscape and explore opportunities to strengthen museum engagement, preservation practices and public access to heritage. Participants in the discussion included Ms Marvi Mazhar, Dr Asma Ibrahim and Ms Nasreen Askari.
“Collaborative engagement between institutions is essential for the preservation and promotion of Pakistan’s cultural heritage,” said Amanullah Khan, Director General of the Department of Archaeology and Museums in the National Heritage and Culture Division. “Strengthening our museums will help ensure that our history remains accessible and meaningful for future generations.”
“At the Aga Khan University, we remain committed to nurturing dialogue and collaboration that strengthens cultural understanding and heritage preservation,” said AKU Vice Provost Anjum Halai. “This initiative reflects our belief in creating inclusive and accessible cultural spaces that encourage learning, reflection and community engagement. ”
The partnership between the Government and agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network
reflects a shared commitment to collaboration and to preserving and promoting Pakistan’s heritage. The analysis of the National Museum and the discussions with stakeholders will help to clarify the scope of the effort required to revitalize the Museum and will form the basis of recommendations to Government officials.
