Conference highlights media innovation, digital transformation and new professional opportunities in Pakistan

Journalists, media professionals, digital innovators, civil society representatives and alumni of U.S. exchange programmes gathered in Karachi

KARACHI: Journalists, media professionals, digital innovators, civil society representatives and alumni of U.S. exchange programmes gathered in Karachi for the Open Voices Conference titled “Strengthening Media, Dialogue, and Digital Innovation in Pakistan.”

The conference brought together professionals and practitioners from different fields to discuss the rapidly changing media environment in Pakistan, with particular focus on digital innovation, artificial intelligence, media entrepreneurship, journalism and the growing need for credible and reliable information.

Faareha Fatima, Alumni Manager at the U.S. Consulate General Karachi, also addressed the participants and emphasised the importance of using professional experiences, networks and available opportunities to contribute positively to society. She highlighted the role of alumni in creating meaningful impact through their respective professional fields and communities.

The keynote address was delivered by Engr. Sabeen Ghouri, Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Information Technology & Telecommunications, Government of Pakistan. She spoke about Pakistan’s evolving digital landscape and discussed both the opportunities and challenges created by rapid technological developments.

Ghouri highlighted how technology is transforming the way information is produced, distributed and consumed. The discussion also focused on the increasing influence of digital platforms and the need for media professionals to understand emerging technologies in order to remain relevant in a rapidly changing information environment.

A major part of the conference was the screening of teasers and explainer videos developed under the grant. The videos demonstrated how digital media formats can be used to present complicated subjects in simple, accessible and engaging ways. The content also offered practical perspectives on the changing digital information ecosystem and the growing importance of innovative communication methods.

The conference further featured a panel discussion titled “Truth in the Age of Noise: Ethical and Credible Journalism in Pakistan’s Evolving Media Landscape.” The session brought together experienced journalists and media professionals to discuss the challenges facing journalism in the digital age.

The panel included journalist Mazhar Abbas, senior journalist Afia Salam, Wusatullah Khan and Ali Arsalan, while senior journalist Lubna Jerar Naqvi moderated the discussion.

During the session, panelists examined the changing nature of journalism and discussed the growing opportunities available to media professionals through digital platforms. They also highlighted the potential of media entrepreneurship and the importance of developing sustainable and scalable digital platforms.

Another major focus of the discussion was maintaining journalistic credibility and accountability at a time when artificial intelligence and other digital tools are becoming increasingly integrated into media production and professional workflows. Panelists discussed the need for journalists to adapt to technological changes without compromising professional ethics, accuracy and audience trust.

The speakers also explored ways for journalists and media practitioners to strengthen their digital skills, develop independent platforms and pursue new professional and entrepreneurial opportunities. At the same time, they stressed the importance of preserving established journalistic standards while adapting to new technologies.

An interactive question-and-answer session allowed participants to directly engage with the panelists. Questions covered a range of issues, including artificial intelligence, digital innovation, media entrepreneurship, journalistic credibility and emerging developments in Pakistan’s information landscape.

The conference concluded with opportunities for participants to connect with fellow journalists, media professionals, alumni and other practitioners. The gathering provided a platform for exchanging professional experiences, building networks and exploring potential collaborations in journalism, digital innovation and media entrepreneurship.