Khushal School and College has launched a Book Friendship Campaign in Swat with support from the Malala Fund to encourage students and young people to read non-curricular books.

The campaign was formally launched during a ceremony at the Swat Museum in Saidu Sharif. Students, teachers, district administration officials, journalists and civil society representatives attended the event.

A key feature of the campaign is a decorated rickshaw filled with books, introduced as the “Book Environment Vehicle.” The mobile book initiative is designed to carry reading material to schools and communities, helping children and the wider public access books more easily.

Speaking at the ceremony, Khushal School and College Principal Huma Shakir said the campaign aims to revive the culture of reading among students and society. She said free books would be distributed among students and members of the public, while educational institutions would also receive book donations.

Assistant Commissioner Babuzai Arham Mukhtar said reading plays an important role in personal growth and professional success. He said regular reading helped him prepare for competitive examinations and serve in public office.

Asia Bibi, principal of Baithak School, said rising book prices have become a challenge for students and parents. She said free access to books can support young learners and help strengthen reading habits.

Student participant Imama Akram said reading informative and literary books alongside academic studies expands knowledge and provides healthy entertainment. She urged students to reduce time spent on mobile phones and social media and build a lasting connection with books.

Participants welcomed the initiative and expressed hope that the campaign would help promote a stronger reading culture in Swat and encourage more young people to make books part of their daily lives

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