KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has approved a proposal of National Academy of Performing Arts (Napa) chairman Syed Jawaid Iqbal for the establishment of a Chair in the name of legendary artist Zia Mohyeddin at the University of Karachi to facilitate research and learning about the vast body of work that the thespian had left behind.

According to a press release, the board of directors of Napa thanked the chief minister and also adopted a resolution to record deep appreciation for the invaluable services of its first president and CEO Zia Mohyeddin, who passed away recently.

Recording its profound respects and admiration for the extraordinary and unrivalled contribution by Mr Mohyeddin to the theatrical arts, to television, to cinema, to the narration of literature and to writing, the Napa board stressed the he led the progressive evolution of Napa over the past 18 years as the country`s preeminent centre for teaching, learning and trainingof hundreds of youth in all aspects of drama and music.

`His unique command over both Urdu and English, his mastery of diction, direction, stage movement and acting enabled young men and women from across the country to become highly successful and praised artists in diverse media,` it said, adding: `Zia Mohyeddin has left a rich legacy to serve as an abiding inspiration for the present and future generations. The fact that he continued to visit Napa every working day till just a few days before his demise, even after attaining the age of 91 years, to deliver lectures and conduct training workshops was a stellar example of his dedication to encourage youth in artistic endeavours.

The board affirmed its determination that, with the continued, valued contribution of the federal government and the Sindh government, and of its faculty, staff, students, patrons, citizens and partners, NAPA will sustain its distinctive role, and where necessary, make further advancements in all respects in order to fulfil its mission.