DLP Report
PESHAWAR
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government organized a three-day conference on “Heritage and Hospitality, Prospects of Archaeology and Tourism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa” in collaboration with University of Peshawar.
As part of this event, a concluding ceremony was held at the Baragali Summer Campus of Peshawar University, that provided a podium to review the vast opportunities in the province’s culture and tourism, as asserted by the delegates of the conference.
Dr. Muhammad Bakhtiar Khan, Secretary of Culture, Tourism, Archaeology and Museums, was chief guest.
While Vice-Chancellor Qazi Muhammad Naeem, academicians from various parts of the country and high ups of KP govt participated in the event, sharing their recommendations and suggestions.
Dr. Bakhtiar on this occasion highlighted the importance of tourism and culture in the national economic growth. He asserted that the promotion of tourism and culture provides employment opportunities to local people while currently a significant portion of the population is employed in tourism and cultural sectors, such as hotels, restaurants, tour guides and handicrafts. He added that the development of tourist sites and the organization of cultural events attract both local and foreign investment, which stabilizes the overall economy.
The Secretary Culture further stated that the influx of foreign tourists not only increases foreign exchange reserves and strengthens the national economy but also enhances local industries through increased sales of local crafts, cuisine and other cultural products, thereby improving the locals standard of living.
Dr. Bakhtiar Khan emphasized that Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with leading universities can bridge the gap between academia and govt departments including the Department of Tourism and Culture. He said that the universities research centers can provide us with innovation on modern trends and new technologies in the Culture and Tourism industry. Additionally, agreements with universities can lead to the establishment of special training programs and educational courses for those working in the tourism sector, improving skills.
The Secretary Tourism and Culture clarified that based on academia’s research and analysis, the Department of Tourism can formulate new policies that will contribute in the promotion of the tourism industry and the development of the local economy.
During the conference, 21 research papers were read out, 2 panel discussions were held and 7 keynote speakers discussed various aspects on the topic. The Secretary Tourism congratulated Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Muhammad Naeem Qazi, delegates and the organizer Dr. Shakeel, appreciating their roles in making the conference a success story. He also distributed shields among the participants
