THE Islamic Centre in Zambia has hailed Government for its continued promotion of the country’s cultural and traditional heritage.

Islamic Centre in Zambia director in charge of cultural and social services, Assadi Mohammed, said in Lusaka on Saturday that Zambia’s culture had remained unique over many decades.

He said it was events such as traditional ceremonies and cultural exhibitions that Zambia’s individuality could be appreciated.

He was speaking in an interview after the opening of a book exhibition for the Razavi Public Library of Iran at the University of Zambia (UNZA).

Mr Mohammed said Iran placed great importance on education.

“In Iran education is valued because it creates many opportunities and it is because of this that my country is committed to sharing education with Zambia,” he said.

Mr Mohammed said through reading, the cultures of other countries could be valued and understood.

He said culture could in turn play a role in the promotion of peace in the world.

Mr Mohammed called on the youth to make the most of the Razavi Public Library because it was well stocked with a variety of educational and Iranian cultural books.

He revealed that the Islamic Centre would soon open a new library in Livingstone as a way of promoting the reading culture in the tourist capital.

At the same function, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fashion Phiri, said Zambia had become a major exporter of academicians in the region and abroad because of the high quality of Zambian intellectuals.

Professor Phiri said knowledge could only be achieved through reading a range of books.

“Zambians must read a lot more books and open their minds to the livelihoods of people in other regions of the world,” he said.

Prof. Phiri said Government would ensure that Zambia regained her status of having one of the best education facilities in institutions around the country.

He also urged Zambians to learn all they could about Iran especially that she had one of the oldest cultures in the world after the Greek society.

The book and cultural exhibition also showcased Iranian handicrafts, paintings and ornaments such as vases, rings and plates.

Source : http://www.zambiaid.co.zm/media/news/viewnews.cgi?category=8&id=1203495048