An experienced painter and sculptor, who displays both confidence and originality in all his works, Dr Murtaza Jafri is the principal of the National College of Arts (NCA), Lahore. He has been serving the college since 1987 and enjoys great respect from the faculty, administrative staff and students here. Besides teaching, Dr Jafri has served the college as its registrar for several years, too. He has also been NCA’s director.

Prof Dr Murtaza Jafri did his Bachelor of Fine Arts from NCA before proceding to the Chelsea College of Arts, London, Montreal University and Concordia University Montreal. Later, he completed his doctoral and post doctoral studies from the School of Architecture and Visual Arts, University of East London. He has supervised a number of PhD and MPhil students from various universities.

Speaking about his college, Dr Murtaza says that NCA’s main objective is to impart quality education that has a humanising effect on society by instilling liberal values. “In order to achieve this objective we are moving towards capacity-building of NCA. We are already in the process of becoming a federal university, which will improve our infrastructure, faculty position and student intake,” he says.

While inquiring about his opinion on the availability of quality art education in Pakistan and if it is easily accessible to everyone, Dr Jafri says, “In my opinion art education is a privilege of a certain section of society. There are not many art institutions in the country nor it is well-promoted at the school level.”

While discussing scholarships, Dr Jafri emphasises that NCA has a system of providing financial aid to the deserving students on the basis of merit. “Scholarships are given in order to help make students achieve their goals.”

In his 26 years of teaching Dr Jafri found the students to be more practical, aware and dedicated. Access to internet has also enhanced their exposure and they are determined to turn their dreams into reality. “I can foresee a better Pakistan in reference to their vision. I maintain a very friendly attitude with my students. For me they are young minds who have to be taken care of, to nourish and nurture through understanding.”

Talking about bodies found to help artists Dr Jafri thinks that there should be a more organised and democratic forum. “We do have an example of the Institute of Architects of Pakistan (IAP) for our architects here. The body for artists should also watch the interests of the artist community. Young artists should also use the platform for introductions and sharing,” he points out.

Girls in our society rarely get the chance to achieve the level of education, especially when it comes to arts. It is noted that parents somewhere become reluctant in sending their daughters to art school perhaps due to social barriers or other such problems. On the question of implementing strategies for boosting confidence in parents Dr Jafri says that education is the basis of a tolerant society. “We encourage the female applicants to join the college and also support them to complete their studies successfully.”

About the approach towards the issue of education and research Dr Jafri says, “The Higher Education Commission has been encouraging but funding and supporting research though some things still need to be improved.

“We may be an art institution but we are equal stakeholders in improving the education system. Any civilised society should invest more in education infrastructure and human resource. Art education is based entirely on human resources and expertise.”

Dr Jafri looks at the NCA as a parent institution because its teachers and graduates set up other arts institutions. “We try our best to facilitate all these art institutions as our offshoots,” he says while adding that it is a great idea to set up more art schools outlined and structured by the HEC.

While talking about the similarities and differences between NCA Rawalpindi and NCA Lahore, Dr Jafri says that he sees no difference as both campuses share the same ideology with most of the faculty comprising NCA Lahore’s teachers and graduates.

On his views about upcoming talent, Dr Jafri says, “I think that the art scene in Pakistan is very promising. The young have new ideas and energy.”