The annual book fair organised by The Maldives National University (MNU) has officially opened. The fair was inaugurated by the Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed.
The fair, which features books by Maldivian authors, aims primarily to make the talents and works of Maldivian writers more accessible to the public and provide opportunities for the publication of previously unpublished books. It also seeks to promote a reading culture in society by making books from different genres available to the public under one roof.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Dr Shaheem highlighted the benefits of reading widely, saying that reading extensively can strengthen a person's mind and contribute to intellectual development. He also noted that reading books covering different fields and written in different languages can expand one's knowledge base and provide significant intellectual and educational benefits.
This is the sixth time MNU has organised the fair. A total of 42 participants are taking part, and the fair will continue from today until the 5th of this month. It will be open every day from 4:00pm to 6:00pm and from 8:00pm to 10:00pm. A new book was also launched at the opening ceremony.
The fair has been organised so that writers and booksellers can participate free of charge. In addition to storybooks for children and adults, the fair will feature books providing general knowledge, school stationery, and a range of products created by Maldivians.